Cleveland Paternity Lawyer

Assisting Clients With Paternity Matters in Ohio

When it comes to paternity matters, ensuring both parents' rights and responsibilities is paramount, especially when the parents are not married. At The Law Offices of LeeDaun C. Williams LLC, our skilled and experienced legal team is dedicated to providing unwavering support and representation for individuals navigating paternity issues in Ohio. We recognize the sensitive nature of these cases and are committed to assisting you through the legal complexities with compassion, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the local legal landscape.

Call The Law Offices of LeeDaun C. Williams LLC today at (216) 350-8511 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our paternity attorney in Cleveland.

What is Paternity?

Paternity commonly refers to the legal identification of a child's biological father. Establishing paternity is vital for confirming a child's lineage and securing essential rights and benefits for both the child and the father. These rights may include child custody, visitation, child support, and the ability to make important decisions on behalf of the child. Our Cleveland paternity lawyer understands the intricacies of paternity cases and is here to guide you throughout the process while ensuring your legal rights are protected every step of the way.

How to Establish Paternity in Ohio

In the state of Ohio, paternity can be established in several ways:

• Voluntary Acknowledgment: If the parents agree on the father's identity, they can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP) form. This form is typically provided at the hospital when the child is born or can be obtained from the local child support agency. Once signed, this form legally recognizes the father as the child's parent.
• Administrative Order: If there is a paternity dispute, either parent can request the child support agency to conduct genetic testing. If the test confirms paternity, an administrative order will be issued, legally establishing the father's rights and responsibilities.
• Court Order: If parties cannot agree on paternity, a court order may be necessary. This involves filing a paternity lawsuit in family court, where genetic testing and other evidence will be considered to determine paternity. Once established, the court will address custody, visitation, and child support matters.

How Long Does the Father Have to Establish Paternity in Ohio?

In Ohio, there is a statute of limitations for establishing paternity. For children born to unmarried parents, paternity can be established at any time before the child turns 23 years old. It's important not to delay, as waiting until the last minute could complicate the legal process and affect your ability to secure certain rights and benefits for your child.

Contact Our Cleveland Paternity Attorney Today

Navigating paternity matters can be emotionally challenging and legally intricate. A dedicated legal advocate by your side can make all the difference in attaining a favorable outcome. The Law Offices of LeeDaun C. Williams LLC is here to provide you with the legal support and guidance you need during this challenging time. Contact our dedicated Cleveland paternity attorney today and take the first step toward securing your parental rights and ensuring a stable future for your child.

Contact The Law Offices of LeeDaun C. Williams LLC today to get started with our Cleveland paternity lawyer.