Establishing Paternity

Establishing paternity is important for a child's medical history, financial support of the child, child custody, and enables the child to foster a relationship with both parents. Paternity cases require a legal action to determine the biological father of a child. When there are any questions about paternity cases, you should consult with an paternity attorney to preserve their rights.

In Nevada, the father listed on the birth certificate is the implied father. It is illegal to knowingly put false information on a child's birth certificate, so women should be careful when naming the father. Women who falsify records or evidence or provide false information to the court may be responsible for paying monetary damages to a man incorrectly accused of being the biological father.

If the alleged father denies paternity, genetic testing will be ordered. This means that the child and alleged father will have samples of their DNA taken and compared by a laboratory in order to determine whether the man is the biological father. If he is found to be the biological father, the court will declare him the legal father.

There is a lot on the line in these cases because the outcome will be used to establish who the fathers rights, child support and custody or visitation. When alleged fathers receive notices about paternity cases being filed  they should contact a lawyer who is familiar with these types of cases will be able to explain more about the legal process.

Under most state laws, these types of cases may be filed at any time before the child is 21 years old. The age of the father is not considered relevant in these matters, and courts can order men of any age tested, even if the men are less than 18 or much older.

Speak an Experienced Las Vegas Paternity Attorney. Call (702) 914-0400.