Last updated on July 2, 2021
To help ensure accuracy, this page was written, edited and is periodically reviewed by a knowledgeable team of legal writers per our editorial guidelines. It was approved for publication by founding attorney Samuel Siemon, who has amassed extensive experience as a Georgia family law attorney. Our last modified date shows when the page underwent a review.
Helping Unmarried Parents With Custody And Visitation Issues
Your child is more important to you than anything else in the world. However, custody laws can be extremely complicated – especially if you are not married to your child’s other parent. You want to spend as much time as possible with your child and are not always sure how to navigate the legal process.
We can help you. We are The Siemon Law Firm Divorce and Family Law Attorneys, P.C., one of Georgia’s largest family law firms. Because our roster of attorneys includes many parents, we understand how important your child’s well-being is to you. Our team strives to protect your child’s best interests while advocating tenaciously for the results you need.
Why Do I Need To Establish Paternity?
When a baby is born, the state automatically assumes that the female parent is the child’s biological mother. However, the state does not automatically assume that the male parent is the biological father. The parents must establish paternity. You can do this by having the father sign the infant’s birth certificate in the hospital, having the father sign a Paternity Acknowledgement or requesting a DNA test. Custodial parents may not receive child support without first determining paternity.
Paternity Vs. Legitimation: What Is The Difference?
Although paternity establishes the biological father of a child, it does not grant the father any legal rights. Legitimation creates a legal relationship between a father and a child. Once a man has established legitimation, he can assert his right to custody and visitation.
We can help you determine paternity, establish legitimation or both. Having helped thousands of clients with the steps, we know the processes inside and out. Our skilled lawyers will help you assert your parental rights, even in complex disputes.
Get Legal Help For You And Your Child
You do not have to face these complex issues on your own. Reach out to us so we can use our experience to help you. To schedule an initial consultation, call us at 770-888-5120. You can also send us an email to reach us online.
