Paternity Lawyer in Panama City

Understanding the Need for Paternity Actions in Florida

When a child is born to parents who are married, both the mother and the father have legal rights and responsibilities in respect to the child. If, however, the parents are not married, there is no legal presumption of who is the father of the child. Consequently, the man is not legally obligated to make child support payments to the mother, nor does he have the right to petition the court for child custody, visitation, or shared parental responsibility. Whether you are the mother or the father, a lawyer from Seaton Law Offices, P.A. can help you take action to establish the identity of the biological father of your child, and we are ready to begin working on your case immediately.

Establishing Paternity For Child Support

We can represent you in filing a petition in the family law court, requesting that the judge legally recognize the paternal relationship between your child and the man whom you believe to be the father. Part of this process is to formally notify the father of the action, after which he will have 20 days to file a response. In the event that he does not answer the petition, we can file a motion for default judgment which could result in your request being granted at a final hearing. If the man contests your petition, we can request scientific paternity testing to irrefutably prove the biological relationship. As soon as this has been done, you will be able to claim the child support payments you need and deserve.

Local Support for Paternity Actions in Panama City

At Seaton Law Offices, P.A., we understand families' unique challenges in Panama City and the surrounding Bay County area. The local community often turns to us for guidance on paternity issues, knowing that we are well-versed in our neighbors' specific needs and concerns. Whether you are navigating the complexities of establishing paternity for child support or seeking to assert your parental rights, we are here to help.

Residents of Panama City can benefit from the resources provided by local government entities such as the Bay County Clerk of Court and the Florida Department of Revenue's Child Support Program. These organizations offer valuable information and services that can assist in the paternity process. While we do not partner directly with these entities, we can guide you on utilizing their resources effectively.

One common pain point for families in our area is the uncertainty and emotional stress that comes with paternity disputes. We know the process can be daunting, especially involving legal proceedings and scientific testing. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and knowledgeable support to help you navigate these challenges. We aim to smooth the process, ensuring you understand each step and feel confident in your decisions.

Our deep connection to Panama City means we are familiar with the local court systems and the procedures required for paternity actions. This local knowledge allows us to offer tailored advice and representation that addresses the unique aspects of your case. Whether you live near the bustling downtown area or in the quieter neighborhoods of Lynn Haven or Callaway, we are ready to assist you in securing the best possible outcome for your family.

Don't let the complexities of paternity issues overwhelm you. Contact Seaton Law Offices, P.A. today to speak with a dedicated family attorney who truly understands the needs of Panama City residents. We are here to help you every step of the way.

Contact Our Paternity Lawyer in Panama City Today

As a father, you also have the right to file a paternity action with the goal of securing shared child custody or visitation privileges. Until this has been done you have no parental rights, but by proving that you are the child's father you can assert your rights. You can additionally request shared responsibility, which gives you a say in matters such as education, religion, discipline and medical care. We know how important it may be for you to assume your role as a father, and will work diligently to help you achieve your goal in the case.