Paternity is defined as being the father of a child or children. Paternity as a legal issue implicates a broad range of family law issues, including child custody, child support and father’s rights. When paternity is in question, DNA testing often is used to determine parentage. The determination of paternity is the first step in seeking child custody, child support or father’s rights.
Jaffe and Clemens is well versed in the evaluation and litigation of paternity cases, which, in California, are referred to as parentage actions. We have represented many individuals of high net worth, including major professional athletes, celebrities and top executives in parentage actions, as well as representing men in father’s rights cases.
If you believe that you are the father of a unborn child, or if you are expecting a child, you will benefit from obtaining legal advice even before the child is born. After the child is born, you will need legal counsel to navigate through the scientific testing to establish parentage and to work out issues of custody and child support. The laws relating to custody and child support are very similar for unmarried and married parents, as discussed above.
Jaffe and Clemens has extensive experience and expertise in the evaluation and litigation of parentage cases, including the defense against false claims of paternity. We have represented many parents to help them to reach agreements regarding child custody and support. Because California takes an intense interest in the welfare of children, all custody agreements and support agreements ultimately are subject to review and approval by the court. We also have represented men seeking to be established as the biological father, seeking visitation or custodial rights.
No matter what the issue, Jaffe and Clemens is prepared to give you effective representation in parentage matters, whether through a negotiated settlement or a trial at court.