Paternity (Parentage)

At LLM Family Law, our skilled attorneys have extensive experience assisting clients in establishing parentage (paternity). Determining parentage is crucial for both children and parents, as it provides important rights, benefits, and obligations under California law.

If you need assistance with a parentage/paternity case, our team is here to guide you through the process and protect your rights.

Why Establishing Parentage (Paternity) Matters

Establishing parentage (paternity) is essential for ensuring:

• Parental rights and responsibilities are legally recognized.
• A child receives financial and emotional support from both parents.
• Legal protections, such as inheritance and access to health benefits, are secured

Because parentage (paternity) cases can be complex, having an experienced family law attorney is essential to navigate legal challenges and protect your rights and your child’s interests.

How is Parentage (Paternity) Established in California

In California, there are two primary ways to establish legal parentage (paternity):

1. Voluntary Declaration of Paternity
   
   • Both parents voluntarily sign and acknowledge that they are the child’s legal parents.
2. Court-Ordered Determination
   
   • A parent, child, child support agency, or other authorized party can petition the court to establish legal parentage
   • The court may order genetic testing to determine the child’s biological father

However, biological parentage does not always determine legal parentage. Under certain circumstances, a non-biological parent may be legally recognized over the objections of a biological parent. For example, with limited exceptions, spouses are conclusively presumed to be the legal parents of a child born during their marriage. However, there is generally no such conclusive presumption for a child born during a non-marital relationship.

Contact Our Team Today

If you need assistance with a parentage (paternity) case, our experienced legal team at LLM Family Law is here to help. We understand the importance and sensitivity of these matters and are committed to ensuring that your rights–and your child’s interests–are fully protected.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable paternity lawyer.