Paternity Attorney

Southern Minnesota Paternity Lawyer

Establishing paternity is very important because a child’s father has no legal right to parenting time or custody until paternity is determined. The mother of the child will have sole physical and legal custody of the child until the court makes a decision. If there is a paternity hearing, the court will make the custody decision and will also make decisions regarding child support and parenting time the same way they do in divorce matters.

If you are facing a matter involving paternity, our Mankato paternity attorney can help you. Whether you need to establish paternity or you need to fight for your rights when it comes to your children, Birkholz Law, LLC is here to help you make it through the process.

Methods To Establish Paternity

According to Minnesota law, there are two methods that are used to establish paternity. The first is through recognition of parentage and the second is through DNA testing.

Recognition of parentage is when the mother and father sign a sworn statement that says the man is the father of the child. This statement is only valid when it is filed with the Minnesota department of Health. If the mother is not married to another person and the parents are at least 18 years of age, this paternity statement is final. This statement can be made at any time and it is best to speak with your Mankato paternity lawyer about making the statement so you know how it will influence your rights.

The second method, genetic testing, is a method that is used, but it requires a court order. One parent may not want to sign the recognition of parentage because they may have doubts as to the paternity of the child or there may be more than one man who has made a claim of paternity. This test is especially important if the mother was married to someone else when the child was conceived or born. The court will take a look at all evidence, including DNA testing and past relationships between the possible father and the mother. While this is a foolproof way to establish paternity, it is not necessary to have one.

Defending Fathers’ Rights

At Birkholz Law, LLC, we will defend the rights of a father who wishes to be a part of his child’s life. We also work with mothers who may have reasons as to why the father should not be a part of the child’s life, such as in instances where domestic violence may be involved.

Nonetheless, we will work with fathers wishing to have visitation with their children and will also help in regards to child support issues and any other matters that come about so that the best interest of all children involved are preserved.

Contact A Family Law Attorney in Mankato

Paternity issues can be difficult. A father does have a right to his children unless he forfeits them. From paternity tests to visitation rights and child support, there are many factors that come into play when a father wishes to have a solid relationship with his children. That is why Birkholz Law, LLC is here to help. To learn more about how we can help you when it comes to paternity matters, call us at the Mankato office at 507-387-2100, the St. James office at 507-375-3374, and the Westbrook office at 507-274-6501 to schedule a free consultation.