Jackson Paternity Attorneys

Serving Clients in Nashville, Jackson, & All of Tennessee

When a child is born to a married couple, the law presumes that the husband is the father of the child. However, if a child is born to an unmarried woman, the law does not automatically presume the father to be the biological dad. In this situation, the father does not have any rights to the child, and the mother cannot seek financial support from the father. In order to establish paternity and the rights and obligations that come with it, you must go through a legal process.

At Casey, Simmons & Bryant, PLLC, we have extensive experience handling paternity matters throughout Tennessee. Our Jackson paternity lawyers can guide you through the necessary legal steps and help you understand your rights and options. We know how important this matter is to you and your child, and we are committed to providing you with the compassionate and personalized representation you deserve.

Call us today at (731) 256-0023 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Jackson paternity attorneys.

What Is Paternity?

Paternity refers to the legal relationship between a father and a child. Establishing paternity is important for many reasons. For the father, it is important to establish paternity in order to gain legal rights to the child. For the mother, it is important to establish paternity in order to receive financial support from the father.

Some of the most common reasons paternity is established include:

• The father wants to gain parental rights to the child
• The mother wants the father to pay child support
• The child is entitled to certain benefits, such as inheritance, Social Security benefits, and medical insurance
• The child has a medical condition that requires information from the father

In Tennessee, paternity can be established in one of two ways: through a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity or through the court system.

Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity

A voluntary acknowledgment of paternity is the easiest way to establish paternity in Tennessee. This is a legal document that can be signed by the mother and the father at the hospital when the child is born. If the father is not present, he can sign the document at a later time. Once the document is signed and filed with the appropriate state agency, paternity is legally established.

Court-Ordered Paternity

If the mother and the father disagree on paternity, the court can get involved. In this situation, either the mother or the father can file a petition with the court to establish paternity. The court will then order genetic testing to determine the paternity of the child. If the test results show that the man is the father, the court will issue an order of paternity. This order will outline the rights and obligations of the father.

Understanding the Legal Benefits of Establishing Paternity

Establishing paternity is not just about determining biological relationships; it plays a crucial role in ensuring the rights and responsibilities of both parents and the child. By legally recognizing paternity, you can secure important benefits that impact your family's future.

Here are some key advantages of establishing paternity:

• Child Support and Financial Security: Legally establishing paternity allows for the appropriate financial support to be mandated, ensuring that the child's needs are met.
• Inheritance Rights: A child has the right to inherit from both parents, which can provide financial stability and security in the future.
• Access to Benefits: Establishing paternity can grant the child access to health insurance, social security, and veteran's benefits through either parent.
• Emotional Bonds: Legal recognition encourages a relationship between the child and both parents, fostering emotional connections that are vital for healthy development.
• Legal Rights for Fathers: Fathers gain the right to participate in important decisions regarding the child's upbringing, including education and healthcare.

At Casey, Simmons & Bryant, PLLC, our experienced paternity attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through the process of establishing paternity. We provide personalized legal support to help you understand your rights and ensure the best outcomes for you and your child. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in this important matter.

Why Do I Need a Paternity Test?

Genetic testing is the only way to determine the biological father of a child. A paternity test can be done through a simple cheek swab. Both the mother and the father must agree to genetic testing. If the mother does not agree to genetic testing, the father can file a paternity suit with the court. The court will then order genetic testing.

Contact us online or call our office at (731) 256-0023 to discuss your case with one of our Jackson paternity lawyers today.