Many people are surprised to learn that establishing paternity of a child is more than simply saying that a particular man admits to it. Under Massachusetts law, to obtain a court order for child support, the person identified as the father must be formally adjudicated as the father. That can be done voluntarily or the court can order a formal DNA test to prove or disprove paternity.
Things change quickly in Massachusetts family law. As a family law attorney for more than 28 years, I have seen judges alter their attitudes significantly regarding paternity and fathers' rights. Where it was once typical of fathers to deny paternity of a child and need to be forced into a paternity test, today they are likely to volunteer to take the test in order to secure parenting time and visitation rights. Mothers, too, are more likely to be open to parenting time and support from an involved father.
What Does It Take to Establish Paternity?
Surprisingly, even having the father sign the birth certificate isn't enough, nor is a verbal agreement. There are only two ways to prove paternity in Massachusetts. A judge must establish it in a court of law, following evidence presented from a DNA test, or both parents must sign a voluntary acknowledgment form. I can help you with both.
The Law Offices of John Hoffman is ready to help you with all of your paternity law needs. Whether you are a motion to force a DNA test, or you are a man seeking to prove or disprove paternity of a child, we can help.
Contact my office in Sharon, Massachusetts, to arrange an opportunity to meet with me about DNA testing, paternity and parental rights. I represent clients in paternity throughout Norfolk, Bristol and Plymouth counties.
