This post serves to conclude and recap my discussion on the handling of paternity disputes in Melbourne, Florida. I felt it necessary to write on this topic due to the fact that parents often find themselves in a frustrating situation when parentage is at dispute. This frustration stems from the fact that the rights and obligations of each parent are limited until an order of paternity is issued. The goal of my last several articles has been to provide information which will help people to fully understand their options. It has also been my goal to provide information which will help people make an informed selection when they are selecting an attorney. If you require assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I have addressed several topics over my recent articles. Issues which I analyzed include:
- Why Melbourne parents need a paternity order
- Florida’s process for establishing paternity
- Deciding child custody and visitation in paternity cases
- Paternity cases involving older children
There are several reasons why I decided to write on these issues. First, parents must understand that they essentially have no rights and obligations until parentage has been established. This means that a father will have no right to visitation and will also not be required to pay child support. Second, there are several steps to establishing paternity. Understanding these steps will help to make the process go smoothly. Third, when deciding custody the Court’s sole concern will be for the best interests of the child. Finally, cases which involve older children can present unique issues. How the Court will handle such matters is a highly fact specific affair.
One point I stressed throughout these articles is that it is important to contact counsel in regard to your situation. An attorney can help you to understand your rights, your options, and the next steps in the process. As a Melbourne paternity lawyer, I have handled many such matters. Contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation. Our office also services clients in the Brevard County cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.