Pasadena Paternity Lawyer 

Trusted Paternity Advocacy in California 

When a married couple has a child together, the State usually recognizes the husband as the child's father unless action is taken to prove otherwise. When an unmarried couple has a child, however, paternity could be a disputed issue. Since every child deserves to receive support from both of their parents and to have relationships with each of them, it is important to take legal action and establish paternity so that your child is adequately cared for by both of their parents.

How to Establish Paternity in California

Contact an attorney. Determining paternity in California is complex. Contacting an experienced Pasadena paternity attorney can help eliminate a lot of hassle.

File a petition. The summons will let the alleged father know that he needs to respond to the filing.

Legally establish facts for the paternity action. These include statements of:

• A citation of the California paternity statute
• Establishing the court’s residency (this statement outlines where the alleged father lives and where the mother lives and helps determine which court has jurisdiction).
• The child’s full name and date of birth
• The relationship between each party and the child
• Whether the mother was married at the time of birth and to whom
• Status of any pending visitation or custody actions relating the child in question

Attend a pretrial hearing. An evaluation of the situation will determine whether a trial is necessary. A recommendation will be made either that the trial move forward, result in a compromise, or be dismissed.

Genetic testing. In order to establish paternity in a disputed case, a DNA test will be taken. This process can take time, but in the end, the State considers the results of the test as solid evidence of paternity.

If you are a father looking to establish paternity and obtain child custody or visitation rights, or if you are a mother looking to establish paternity so that you can pursue child support, our firm can help. Searching for an attorney for a paternity case in Pasadena? Contact Schweitzer Law Partners to discuss your case with a Pasadena paternity attorney and find out what can be done to help you establish paternity and fight for your fathers' or mothers' rights.

Contact Our Pasadena Paternity Attorney Today 

Need a lawyer for a paternity case in Pasadena? As Pasadena's premier family law firm, our legal team has practiced extensively in all areas of divorce and family law. We are more than capable of helping you take the necessary steps to establish paternity and achieve the results you need. Our lawyers are compassionate and understanding and will use every legal means to obtain an outcome that benefits you and your child. Our firm has over 55 years of combined experience and is AV® Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, so don't wait. 

Contact us todayfor the excellent counsel that you need.

Understanding Paternity Issues in Pasadena, CA

In Pasadena, navigating paternity matters can be particularly challenging, especially for unmarried couples. Local resources, such as the Pasadena City Hall and the Los Angeles County Department of Child Support Services, provide essential information and support for families dealing with paternity disputes. These entities can guide you through the process, but having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can make all the difference.

Many residents in Pasadena face common pain points when it comes to establishing paternity. For instance, the emotional strain of uncertainty regarding parental rights can be overwhelming. Additionally, the complexities of California law can lead to confusion about the necessary steps to take. Whether you are a father seeking to assert your rights or a mother looking to secure child support, understanding the local legal landscape is crucial.

Moreover, Pasadena's diverse community means that each family's situation is unique. Local courts may have specific procedures and timelines that can affect your case. By working with a Pasadena paternity attorney, you can ensure that you are well-informed about your rights and responsibilities, and that you are taking the right steps to protect your child's best interests.

At Schweitzer Law Partners, we recognize the challenges faced by families in Pasadena. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the paternity process with compassion and understanding. We are here to support you in establishing paternity, securing custody, and ensuring that your child receives the support they deserve. Reach out to us today to learn how we can assist you in this important journey.

Commonly Asked Questions

Why is establishing paternity important for my child?

Establishing paternity is crucial for several reasons. It not only provides a child with a sense of identity and secure family connections but also means that they can benefit from both parents' rights. Legally establishing paternity allows children to receive financial support from both parents, access health benefits, and inherit assets. Moreover, it fosters the child's emotional well-being by encouraging relationships with both mothers and fathers. By establishing paternity, parents can also make informed decisions regarding child custody, visitation, and responsibilities, creating a more stable environment for the child's development.

Why choose Schweitzer Law Partners for paternity legal matters in Pasadena?

Choosing Schweitzer Law Partners for paternity legal matters in Pasadena ensures you are partnered with a dedicated and compassionate legal team. Our firm has over 55 years of combined experience in family law. We understand the complexities of California's legal landscape and are committed to providing personalized attention to your unique situation. Our AV Rated status reflects our commitment to the highest standards of legal counsel. With our firm by your side, you can trust that we can fight diligently for your rights and your child’s best interests, navigating the legal process with professionalism and care.