Atlanta Paternity Lawyer

Professional Atlanta Legitimation & Paternity Attorneys in Atlanta, Georgia

In general, legitimation is the legal process by which a father establishes his parental rights with respect to a minor child (or children) when he was not married to the child’s mother when the child was born and the child has not been legitimated since being born. Legitimation can provide profound legal rights for a father because until he is legitimated he has no custodial rights. Quite frankly, unless he has been legitimated, a father has almost no rights but he does still have obligations. A paternity action, on the other hand, generally, is where the mother is the moving party seeking to establish paternity of the father and to establish his child support obligation when the parties were not married at the time of the child’s birth. Our Atlanta paternity lawyers at Naggiar and Sarif are ready to help you through this process.

Generally, a legitimation must be filed in the county where the mother resides, but there are exceptions that the law provides for where a legitimation can be filed in the county of the father.

The process of legitimation can be simplified into several key steps. Firstly, the father must acknowledge paternity, affirming his biological connection to the child. This can be achieved through a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity or, in some cases, through a court-ordered DNA test to establish a biological link. The acknowledgment sets the groundwork for the legal relationship between the father and the child.

Once paternity is established, the next step is to seek legitimation through the court system. This involves filing a legitimation petition, wherein the father formally requests legal recognition as the child’s father. It is essential for individuals embarking on this journey to understand the legal implications and responsibilities that come with legitimation. Our Atlanta paternity lawyers will play a crucial role in guiding our clients through these steps, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared for the legal process.

One primary benefit of legitimation is the establishment of parental rights. Without legitimation, a father may find himself limited in terms of visitation, custody, and decision-making authority for the child. Legitimation provides a legal framework for fathers to actively participate in their child’s life, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection.

Moreover, legitimation can have a direct impact on financial obligations. With legal recognition as the child’s father, a man becomes liable for child support, ensuring that the child’s financial needs are adequately met. This aspect is crucial in maintaining the child’s well-being and is a significant consideration for the court during legitimation proceedings.

The role of our law firm is to guide clients through the legitimation and paternity process with clarity and efficiency. This involves explaining the legal requirements, assisting with paperwork, and representing the client’s interests in court. It’s about ensuring that the client is well-informed and prepared to navigate the legal landscape with confidence.

Legitimation and paternity cases can vary in complexity, but we strive to simplify the process for our clients. By focusing on the essential elements of establishing paternity, filing the legitimation petition, and addressing parental rights and financial obligations, our firm ensures that our clients can approach the legal proceedings with a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities.

Contact our Atlanta Legitimation and Paternity Legal Team Today

Beginning the journey to establish legitimation and paternity can be a crucial step in securing the legal rights and responsibilities that come with parenthood. Today, we encourage you to take the proactive step of contacting our experienced legitimation and paternity lawyers. Our dedicated legal team is well-versed in navigating the complexities of family law, ensuring that your rights are protected and your child’s best interests are prioritized. By reaching out to us today, you can initiate the process of establishing legal legitimacy and parental rights, gaining the support and guidance needed for a smooth and successful resolution. Our compassionate and knowledgeable attorneys are ready to assist you in this important legal matter, providing personalized advice tailored to your unique circumstances.