Westchester County Paternity Lawyer
Child support is a critical financial tool for millions of single mothers. The problem is getting the father to pay, especially when he denies responsibility by claiming that the child is not his. There is a solution for this: DNA testing. Similarly, if you are a father and the mother has denied visitation rights or custody rights, DNA testing will confirm whether or not you are the child’s biological father, and will create an opportunity for you to seek parental rights. The Westchester County paternity lawyers at The Law Office of Robert S. Sunshine, P.C. can assist you, whether you are the father or mother, in your quest to seek out the child’s biological father. Once the father’s identity has been proven, we will take the necessary steps to request child support payments, or to seek custody/visitation rights.
What is DNA Paternity Testing and is it Accurate?
To scientifically prove, without any doubt whatsoever, who the child’s biological father is, all that one needs to do is undergo DNA paternity testing. DNA testing is essentially 100 percent accurate. All that it requires is a sample of DNA from the child and suspected father—usually in the form of hair or saliva, the latter acquired during a minimally impactful cheek swab. The results are generally available within 48 hours, and will legally determine who the father is. DNA testing can be court-ordered, meaning that if the suspected father has been reluctant to undergo such testing, the court can order the individual to comply. Similarly, if the mother of the child has refused to have the child undergo DNA testing, a father can petition the court to demand compliance.
Paternity Testing for Mothers Seeking Child Support
The primary objective of most mothers who petition the court for DNA paternity testing do so for the potential child support obligation that follows. Raising a child by oneself, on a single wage, is extremely difficult even if a mother has a high paying job. The average cost of raising a child in the United States is well into the six figures. As such, it is essential to seek out child support from the father. Fathers have a legal obligation to assist in the financial aspect of raising their children. The only way to prove a reluctant father’s identity is by working with an attorney to petition the court for paternity testing.
Paternity Testing for Fathers Seeking Child Custody or Visitation Rights
Not all unwed fathers are delinquent individuals. In fact, the truth could not be further from the “deadbeat dad” stereotype. Countless fathers want an active and intimate role in their child’s lives, but are denied because of the mother’s wishes. In order to gain custody and visitation rights, such fathers need to petition the court for paternity testing, which will prove that the child is theirs, and create an avenue for parental rights.
Call a Westchester County Paternity Lawyer Today
Whether you are a mother or a father, we can help you in your struggle to gain child support or child custody/visitation. Call the Westchester County paternity lawyers at The Law Office of Robert S. Sunshine, P.C. today at 845-735-1300 to schedule a free consultation.
