Last updated on June 6, 2024
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.
Experienced Marietta Paternity And Legitimation Attorneys
Establishing a child’s biological and legal ties to their father is not always easy, but it is important. Both the child and the father stand to benefit greatly from both paternity and legitimation.
At The Siemon Law Firm Divorce and Family Law Attorneys, P.C., we understand that your situation may be very emotional. We work hard to help our clients in Marietta and throughout Cobb County in accomplishing their goals with a minimum of stress. We have extensive experience in resolving complex family issues, including paternity and legitimation issues.
What Is The Difference Between Paternity And Legitimation?
Georgia law establishes two different legal relationships between an unmarried father and their child. Paternity is not the same thing as legitimation.
In essence, paternity establishes your legal responsibilities toward a child, but legitimation establishes your parental rights. Paternity means that you are obligated to support your child, while legitimation means that you can pursue formal visitation and custody.
Even if you voluntarily acknowledge your paternity without a DNA test by signing the child’s birth certificate with the mother’s agreement, that does not give you the right to visitation or custody of your child. The child’s mother can grant or deny you access to your child at will until you take the additional steps to file for legitimation.
Then, you need to ask the court to grant your custody and visitation rights over your child so that your relationship is protected. That decision is always based on the best interests of the child, which means that you need the guidance of an experienced Marietta family lawyer to present your case for the maximum benefit.
Our Marietta Lawyers Can Help You
Call The Siemon Law Firm Divorce and Family Law Attorneys, P.C. at 770-888-5120 to schedule a consultation with a Marietta family law attorney about your paternity and legitimation case. We will help you understand the differences between the two and guide you through each step of the process. Our offices are conveniently located in Marietta, Alpharetta, Atlanta and Cumming to better meet our clients’ needs.
