Representing Individuals in Houston, Texas & Throughout Harris County in Paternity Matters
The right to be part of his child’s life is one of the most fundamental aspects of being a dad in Houston, Texas. This is also a crucial aspect of paternity law. Paternity’s purpose is to establish a legal relationship between a father and his child. This relationship not only allows a dad to seek custody and visitation but also comes with the responsibility of providing financial support and being actively involved in the child’s life.
However, there are times when the mom may not cooperate in allowing the dad to have a meaningful role in the child’s life. In these difficult situations, having a compassionate and dedicated Houston, Texas paternity attorney by your side is essential to ensuring your rights are protected. At Stange Law Firm, our Houston paternity lawyers handle every aspect of your paternity case, from establishing legal paternity to enforcing the dad’s rights. Our firm understands how important it is for dads to play an active role in their children’s lives, and we are here to advocate for the time you deserve. Contact a Houston, TX paternity attorney today to get dedicated legal representation.
What Is Paternity?
Paternity refers to the legal establishment of the relationship between a dad and his child. In Texas, there are several methods for establishing paternity:
- Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP)
- Court-ordered paternity
- Presumed paternity
- Adoption
What Legal Responsibilities Does Paternity Give the Dad in Harris County?
Establishing paternity in Texas grants several important legal rights, including:
- Custody and Visitation: A dad can seek conservatorship (custody) and visitation rights, allowing him to spend time with his children.
- Child Support: When paternity is established, the dad may be required to pay child support. The establishment also gives him the right to seek child support if the mother is not providing adequate financial support.
- Decision-Making Rights: Once established as a legal parent, a dad can have a say in major life decisions including the children’s education and health care.
- Legal Access: Establishing paternity gives the dad access to important legal documents. These documents can include the child’s medical records, educational information, and social needs.
What Can Make Paternity Hard to Establish in Houston, Texas?
Establishing paternity is crucial for securing a dad’s rights and responsibilities, but certain challenges can make the process difficult. Here are some examples of challenges that may affect the ability to establish paternity:
- Disagreement Between Parents
- Lack of a Signed Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP)
- Genetic Testing Disputes
- Complex Legal or Emotional Issues
- Presumed Father Complications
- Out-of-State or Unknown Fathers
- Contested Paternity
Overall, paternity establishment can be complicated in Texas, especially when there is disagreement, reluctance, or other challenges involved. Seeking legal guidance from a Houston, Texas paternity lawyer at Stange Law Firm can help you understand your rights and develop a legal strategy moving forward.
Contact Stange Law Firm in Houston, Texas in Harris County, TX Today
If you need assistance establishing paternity in Houston, enforcing your paternal rights, or have questions about your rights as a dad, contact Stange Law Firm in Houston, Texas today. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you foster and maintain a strong relationship with your child.
Harris County (Houston), Texas Office (346-466-4901) | 12 Greenway Plaza, Suite 1147, Houston, Texas 77046 (Opening 2/3/2025)
