Representing Individuals in Lexington, Kentucky & Throughout Fayette County in Paternity Matters
A dad’s right to be involved in his child’s life is a fundamental part of parenthood in Lexington, Kentucky. Paternity law establishes the legal relationship between a dad and child, allowing dads to seek custody, visitation, and parenting time, while also taking on the responsibility of financial support and daily involvement.
In some situations, a mom may not cooperate or allow a dad to be part of the child’s life. When this happens, having a knowledgeable and compassionate Lexington paternity attorney can be important in protecting your parental rights. Our Lexington paternity lawyers handle all aspects of paternity cases, from establishing legal paternity to seeking custody or enforcing parenting time. We understand how important it is for dads to stay involved in their children’s lives and are here to advocate for the time and connection you deserve.
Contact our Lexington, Kentucky paternity attorneys today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help.
What is Paternity in Lexington, KY?
Paternity is the legal recognition of the relationship between a dad and his child. In Kentucky, paternity is typically established in one of two ways:
- Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP): Both parents sign a legal document acknowledging the dad’s paternity, often at the hospital after the child’s birth.
- Court Order Following a Paternity Lawsuit: If paternity is contested or unclear, either parent can initiate a legal action, and the court may order genetic testing to determine paternity.
Once paternity is legally established, the family court can address important matters such as custody, child support, medical support, Social Security benefits, insurance, and other entitlements that affect the child’s well-being.
What Legal Responsibilities Does Paternity Give the Dad in Fayette County?
Establishing paternity in Kentucky grants a dad several important legal rights and responsibilities. These include:
- Custody and Visitation: A dad can pursue legal custody or visitation, allowing him to play an active role in his child’s life.
- Child Support: Once paternity is confirmed, a dad may be obligated to pay child support. In turn, he also gains the right to seek custody or visitation.
- Medical and Insurance Benefits: A dad may be able to provide medical coverage for his child and include the child on his health insurance plan.
- Social Security and Inheritance Rights: The child may become eligible for benefits such as Social Security, veterans’ benefits, or inheritance rights after paternity is established.
- Legal Decision-Making: Establishing paternity can give a dad the ability to participate in major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and overall welfare.
Establishing paternity helps ensure that dads are legally recognized and have the opportunity to be actively involved in their child’s life, both emotionally and financially.
What Can Make Paternity Hard to Establish in Lexington, Kentucky?
In Kentucky, several factors can make establishing paternity more complex. Disputes over who the biological dad is, a dad’s refusal to acknowledge paternity, or difficulty locating him may require court-ordered DNA testing or other legal actions. If the mother is married to someone else, her husband is often presumed to be the legal dad, and challenging this presumption involves specific legal procedures.
Even after paternity is confirmed, complications can continue. If a dad has had limited contact with the child, pursuing custody or visitation may be more challenging. Additionally, complex family dynamics or ongoing custody disputes can further complicate the process and impact a dad’s ability to assert his parental rights.
Contact Stange Law Firm in Lexington, Kentucky in Fayette County, KY Today
If you need assistance with establishing paternity in Lexington, Kentucky, or the surrounding areas, Stange Law Firm is here to help. Our team can answer your questions and help you establish your rights as a dad. Contact us online today or call 855-805-0595 to schedule an initial consultation.
Fayette County (Lexington) Office: 859-203-2583 | 424 Lewis Hargett Cir., Suite 231, Lexington, Kentucky 40503
