Paternity

South Florida Paternity Attorney

As in the case of Anna Nicole Smith, sometimes personal matters reach a point where idle speculation requires a solid legal determination. At the Law Firm of Jerome P. Ventura, P.A., we understand how determining paternity can be essential in resolving your child support, custody, and paternity disputes.

Pembroke Pines lawyer Jerome Ventura supplies the technical knowledge and understanding in paternity law that you will need to resolve your paternity issue. Mr. Ventura and our office staff will assist you in the determination of paternity and provide representation regarding the visitation, custody, and support of your child.

Why is establishing paternity important?

Paternity is important in two respects. First, it is the first step in establishing a healthy relationship between parent and child. When children know they are part of a family, they are likely to be more secure about who they are and where they come from. This also gives a child the chance to learn about and appreciate their particular cultural heritage.

Secondly, paternity is required by the state of Florida so that both parents share the obligation of child support. Legal parents are required to support their children until they reach the age of majority (18 in Florida), or later in special circumstances.

Additionally, paternity establishes a father’s legal right to custody and/or visitation, as well as the right to participate in major decisions in the child’s life. Establishing paternity can also keep the mother from relocating with the child if this would adversely affect your visitation rights.

There a recent Florida law that says a father can disestablish paternity under certain circumstances. If you think that you are paying child support for a child that is not yours, it may be possible to revisit that issue through DNA testing.

Let South Florida paternity attorney Jerome P. Ventura provide you with peace of mind by helping you reach a determination regarding parental rights and obligations. For an initial limited consultation at no charge, call 954.438.2828 or complete the contact form on this web site. Evening appointments are available.