Ellijay Paternity Lawyer

Paternity Attorney in Ellijay, GA

We understand the unique challenges that unmarried parents may face. Our Ellijay paternity lawyer can assist both mothers and fathers in establishing paternity and help everyone move forward with their parenting journey.

Why It Is Important to Establish Paternity

Establishing paternity is important for everyone involved: the child, the mother, and the father. It lays the groundwork for a child’s well-being.

For the Child

Paternity offers a child a strong sense of identity and belonging. It can also lock in essential legal rights and benefits, including:

• Financial support: Children have a legal right to be financially supported by both parents. When paternity is established, child support payments can be made.
• Inheritance rights: A child who is legally recognized can inherit from their parents, even if one of them passes away without a will.
• Access to benefits: Children may be eligible for Social Security, veterans’ benefits, health insurance, and other important government benefits through both parents.
• Medical history: Knowing the medical history of both parents is vital for addressing and understanding any potential genetic or hereditary health conditions.

For the Parents

Establishing paternity also gives the parents, especially the fathers, important legal standing. It will grant them custody and visitation rights, which allows them to be actively involved in their child’s life. Along with these rights comes the legal responsibility to support their children emotionally and physically.

How Paternity Is Determined

The state of Georgia allows several ways for paternity to be established:

Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity

The easiest way to establish paternity is if both parents agree. They can sign a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity form at the hospital when the child is born. This is a fully legal document that does not require a court visit.

Administrative Order Based on Genetic Testing

If there is a disagreement about who the father is, either parent can ask for a genetic test. These tests are extremely accurate, and if the test identifies the father, the state of Georgia can issue an administrative order that officially establishes paternity.

Paternity Court Order

When the presumed father denies paternity or is not available, the mother can seek a court order. This involves filing a petition with the Gilmer County Superior Court Clerk’s Office, which may then order genetic testing. This must be conducted at an AABB-accredited lab to be court-admissible, with the most common local providers being Health Street or Georgia Medical Solutions. The court will then issue a paternity order based on any test results or other evidence.

Presumption of Paternity

The law in Ellijay presumes a man is the father if he was married to the mother when the child was born or if the child was born shortly after the marriage ended. Even though this is a legal presumption, it can be challenged in court.

The Role of Legal Representation in Paternity Cases

Paternity cases can be complex, but having an experienced paternity lawyer by your side can help streamline the process. Your legal representative can represent you in court and safeguard your rights. They can also offer vital advice on the implications of established paternity, help negotiate child support and custody arrangements, and resolve any disputes that may come up.

Contact Our Paternity Lawyer in Ellijay

If you are seeking to establish paternity rights in Ellijay, contact Sevcech Law today. Our experienced team can discuss your case with you and help you navigate through the family law system and protect your rights.