Portland Paternity & Fathers’ Rights

Representing Fathers during Paternity Matters in Portland, Oregon

Paternity is legally defined as the legal acknowledgement of the parental relationship between a father and a child, which is based upon several factors.  In the past, when a child was born to a wife, it was automatically assumed that the husband was the father.  However, that generalization no longer holds true.  Thanks to the evolution of paternity tests and the opening up of discussions pertaining to paternity, more people are choosing to prove paternity versus just assume it.

Now days, there are numerous legal matters where paternity plays a crucial role, and cannot just be assumed.  Legal matters where paternity may be relevant and impact the outcome include, but are not limited to:

• child support
• child custody
• visitation
• adoption
• spousal support

For example, in a case where a mother wishes to collect child support from a man, and the man believes he is not the father of the child, a paternity test may be ordered.  The results of the paternity test would decide upon whether the man has to pay child support or not.  If the man is identified as the father by the test, he would most likely be ordered to pay child support.  However, if the test reveals that the man is not the biological father; the court may say that the man has no financial obligations to the child or to the child’s mother.

Portland Fathers’ Rights & Paternity Attorneys

When a man is uncertain of his paternity or has questions related to paternity, it is always advisable that he meet with a qualified Portland fathers’ rights attorney.  A fathers’ right lawyer can help the man obtain appropriate paternity testing, inform the man of his rights and options, and also litigate on the man’s behalf during paternity related legal matters, like child custody and child support.

If you have questions related to paternity, you should begin working with a trustworthy Portland family lawyer immediately!