A paternity suit is a legal process used to establish the father of a child, typically when the parents are unmarried. The outcome of the suit can have significant implications, including child support, custody, and visitation rights. In Tennessee, a paternity suit can be filed by either the mother or the father or even by a government agency when seeking child support. Once paternity is established, the father gains legal rights and obligations concerning the child, which is why it is important to ensure that paternity is accurately determined.
If you are involved in a paternity dispute in Memphis, Tennessee, you may find yourself asking numerous questions. Understanding the legal process is essential if you’re seeking to establish paternity, defend against a paternity suit, or learn about the implications of establishing legal fatherhood. At Douglass & Runger, our experienced attorneys are ready to assist you in navigating the complex legal landscape of paternity suits.
Why Paternity Matters
Paternity establishes the legal father-child relationship, which impacts several areas of family law:
- Once paternity is determined, the father may be required to pay child support.
- Establishing paternity also gives the father the legal right to pursue custody or visitation.
- The father will have a say in important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing.
- The child gains inheritance rights from the father once paternity is confirmed.
The Legal Process of a Paternity Suit in Tennessee
The process starts with filing a petition in family court. If you’re a mother seeking child support or a father seeking custody or visitation rights, you must provide evidence supporting your claim of paternity. A paternity test may be ordered by the court to determine biological fatherhood.
The court will often order a DNA test to confirm paternity. These tests are highly accurate and are often the determining factor in paternity cases. Testing can be done after the child is born and, in some cases, during pregnancy.
Once the test results confirm paternity, the court will issue an order legally establishing the father as the child’s parent. From this point forward, the father will have legal rights and responsibilities toward the child.
With paternity established, the court will address child support and custody matters. In Tennessee, child support obligations are determined based on both parents’ income and the child’s needs. Custody and visitation are addressed in a manner that serves the child’s best interests.
Common Situations in Paternity Cases
Paternity Suit Filed by Mother often happens when a mother seeks child support from a man she believes to be the father of her child. We can help ensure that paternity is accurately established and protect your rights during the legal proceedings.
Paternity Suit Filed by Father may file paternity suits to establish legal fatherhood and gain custody or visitation rights. If you’re seeking to prove your paternity, we can guide you through the process and help you assert your parental rights.
If you’re facing a paternity suit and you believe you are not the child’s father, our attorneys can help you contest the suit and navigate the legal complexities involved.
