Paternity Attorney Summerfield

What are the Main Reasons for Establishing Paternity?

Christopher Doty is an experienced Paternity attorney serving Summerfield, Ocala and the surrounding area. Establishing paternity in Florida can be confusing and difficult without proper legal guidance. Christopher Doty can assist you in resolving your paternity issues. Christopher has been providing paternity representation as well as divorce and child custody representation in Ocala and the surrounding area since 2004.

At the Law Offices of Christopher Doty, P.A. my mission statement is, “FIGHTING 4 FAMILIES,” which is exactly what I do. No matter what the situation, I will fight for you and all that you are entitled to under the law. I will handle your case with the utmost respect and integrity, while making sure that your rights are protected and exercised at the least possible cost for you and your family. If you need a paternity attorney in Summerfield or anywhere in Central Florida, call or contact Christopher Doty.

The main reasons for establishing paternity are as follows:

  • A father wants to have all the legal rights of fatherhood, with respect to his child
  • A mother who is under the age of 16 is seeking public financial assistance to help support her child
  • A mother is trying to establish who is the father of her child to secure financial support from the father
  • Providing the child with an identity by knowing and establishing who the parents are
  • Establishing a health history for the child’s medical wellbeing and care
  • Determining the amount of financial support for the child
  • Having the father’s name added to the child’s birth certificate
  • Creating a path for the father to pursue custody or visitation
  • Determining a line of succession for inheritance from a biological father
  • Establishing the right to receive Social Security, veterans’ benefits, or health insurance

How do you get a DNA paternity test?

Many laboratories exist that can administer a DNA test for paternity.  To use the results in court, the laboratory should be considered a legal source for providing these lab results.

The Basics of Florida Paternity Law

Every state is different when it comes to paternity issues. It’s important to note that simply having the name of an unmarried father on a birth certificate does not always establish him as the legal father. In some cases, the mother may be married to another man and while not the biological father, her husband may be determined to be the child’s legal father. If a man believes he may be the biological father of a child, he may file a paternity action to obtain certain rights. In Florida, the state allows a paternity action to be filed by either the mother, father or even the child when paternity has not already been established. The paternity action must take place within 4 years after the child reaches the age of majority. The age of majority in Florida is 18. Of course, it’s far more preferable for a paternity issue to be resolved while the child is young, so that the child has the opportunity to form a relationship with both parents.

Whether established through DNA testing or mutual consent, these steps are important when a child is born out of wedlock or the parents do not marry prior to the birth of the child. That is why you need the experience of a proven paternity attorney like Christopher Doty.

Paternity attorney Summerfield

The Law Offices of Chris Doty also provide legal services for the following:

  • Divorce
  • Uncontested Divorce
  • Post-Divorce Issues
  • Alimony
  • Legal Separation
  • Paternity Issues
  • Visitation
  • Civil/Domestic Violence Injunction
  • Relative or Stepparent Adoption
  • Military Divorce

Why should you consult with Christopher Alan Doty, a dedicated family law attorney?

Every paternity case is unique in some ways. While we can represent you in the traditional sense, we can also assist in a mediated settlement. If your case is contested, I will provide you with skilled representation to protect your rights.

I take pride in looking after the needs of people in Central Florida. Hiring a professional and well-prepared family law attorney is a crucial decision on the outcome of your future and that of a child. I have helped clients and families across Central Florida, and I can proudly say that I have exceeded my client’s expectations on all levels. I offer personalized service and have made it my mission to “FIGHT 4 FAMILIES” throughout Ocala, FL and surrounding areas. As a former United States Marine, it is my honor to continue to serve and protect your rights. I look forward to meeting with you and discussing your case.

Sincerely,

Christopher Alan Doty, Esq

BEST. LAWYER. EVER. This man knows what he is doing. Him and his Para-Legal are the best team. Awesome duo! He is also a Straight-forward no bullcrap kind of guy. You want him on your side. I cannot express my gratitude enough!

Krystal Shotwell

The Law Offices of Christopher Alan Doty, P.A.

proudly offers services in the following areas:

Ocala
 Dunnellon
Summerfield
McIntosh
Marion Oaks
Inverness
Beverly HIlls
Sugarmill Woods
Orlando

Belleview
Silver Springs
Oxford
Reddick
Fort McCoy
Crystal River
Lecanto
Black Diamond
Tampa

The Villages
Lady Lake
Weirsdale
Top of the World
Candler Hills
Homosassa Springs
Hernando
Citrus Hills
Jacksonville

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