Madison Paternity Lawyer
Helping Fathers Establish Paternity Rights in Wisconsin
Regarding paternity matters, Balisle Family Law Legal Counsel, S.C. is a pillar of support for clients in Madison, Wisconsin. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complex terrain of paternity law. Understanding paternity and the associated legal implications is essential, and we are here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. Let us shed light on the intricacies of paternity law and how we can assist you in achieving your legal goals.
Call Balisle Family Law Legal Counsel, S.C. today at (608) 765-1001 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our paternity attorney in Madison!
What is Paternity?
Paternity refers to legally recognizing a father's relationship with his child. Establishing paternity is a crucial step, as it grants legal rights and responsibilities to both parents. These rights and responsibilities include custody, visitation, child support, and the child's eligibility for benefits such as inheritance, medical coverage, and Social Security. Paternity cases can arise in various situations, including divorce, separation, or even for unmarried couples.
At Balisle Family Law Legal Counsel, S.C., we recognize that each paternity case is unique. Our skilled Madison paternity lawyers are committed to helping you understand the nuances of your specific situation and provide tailored legal solutions to protect your rights as a father.
Establishing Paternity in Wisconsin
In the state of Wisconsin, there are several ways to establish paternity:
Voluntary Acknowledgment: If both parents agree on the child's paternity, they can sign a Voluntary Paternity Acknowledgment form. This form is typically completed at the hospital shortly after the child's birth, making the process relatively straightforward.
Genetic Testing: If there is a paternity dispute, the court can order genetic testing. DNA testing can determine whether an alleged father is the child's biological parent. Our Madison paternity lawyers are experienced in handling genetic testing cases and can guide you through the process.
Court Order: In cases where paternity is contested or cannot be resolved through voluntary acknowledgment or genetic testing, a court can issue a paternity order after a legal proceeding. This order will legally establish the father's relationship with the child and outline the associated rights and responsibilities.
How Long Does a Father Have to Establish Paternity?
The time frame for establishing paternity in Wisconsin is a matter of legal significance. In most cases, paternity can be established at any time before the child reaches the age of majority, which is 18 years old. However, it is essential to note that waiting to establish paternity can have significant consequences, especially concerning custody, visitation, and child support.
Delaying the establishment of paternity can result in missed opportunities to develop a meaningful relationship with your child or secure your rights as a father. Additionally, it can affect the child's access to financial support and inheritance rights.
Our Madison paternity lawyers recommend addressing paternity issues promptly to ensure that your rights and responsibilities as a father are protected from the outset. Whether seeking to establish paternity or challenging a paternity claim, our legal team will work tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for you and your child.
Contact Our Paternity Attorney in Madison Today
Navigating the complexities of paternity law can be emotionally challenging and legally intricate. At Balisle Family Law Legal Counsel, S.C., our Madison paternity lawyers are here to provide the guidance and legal representation you need to address paternity matters effectively. We understand the importance of establishing paternity and will work diligently to protect your rights as a father.
Contact Balisle Family Law Legal Counsel, S.C. today to schedule a consultation with our paternity lawyer in Madison!