Chattanooga Paternity Attorneys

Helping Fathers Establish Parental Rights in Tennessee

When a child is born to a married couple, the law automatically recognizes the husband as the father. However, when a child is born to an unmarried couple, the father does not have any legal rights or responsibilities until paternity is established. If you are a father who wants to establish your parental rights, or if you are a mother who wants to establish paternity to obtain child support, our Chattanooga paternity lawyers can help.

At Conner & Roberts, PLLC, we understand the sensitive nature of these cases and are committed to providing compassionate and personalized legal guidance. Our Chattanooga paternity attorneys can help you navigate the legal process and work to protect your rights and best interests.

Need a fathers rights lawyer to protect you and your child's best interests? Call (423) 299-4489 or contact us online to schedule a FREE consultation with our Tennessee family law firm.

How Is Paternity Established in Tennessee?

There are several ways to establish paternity in Tennessee. If the parents are married when the child is born, the law automatically recognizes the husband as the father. However, if the parents are not married, paternity must be established.

There are three ways to establish paternity in Tennessee:

• Voluntary acknowledgment: The easiest way to establish paternity is for both parents to sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form. This form can be signed at the hospital when the child is born or at a later date. Once the form is signed, the father's name will be added to the birth certificate, and he will have all the rights and responsibilities of a parent.
• Administrative order: If the mother is receiving public assistance, the state can establish paternity by filing an administrative order. The father will be notified of the order and will have the opportunity to request a DNA test. If the test confirms that he is the father, paternity will be established.
• Court order: If the mother is not receiving public assistance, she can file a petition with the court to establish paternity. The court will order a DNA test, and if the test confirms that the man is the father, paternity will be established. The court will also address child custody, visitation, and child support.

Benefits of Legally Establishing Paternity

Establishing paternity is important for both the father and the child. When paternity is established, the father has the right to seek custody or visitation. He also has the right to be involved in the child's life and make decisions about the child's upbringing. The child also benefits from having a relationship with both parents.

Establishing paternity is also important for financial reasons. When paternity is established, the father has the legal obligation to provide financial support for the child. The child is also entitled to certain benefits, such as Social Security, veterans' benefits, and inheritance rights.

Understanding Paternity Rights in Chattanooga: Local Insights and Resources

Living in Chattanooga, you know that family and community are at the heart of our city. When establishing paternity, local resources and government entities ensure that fathers and children have the support they need. For instance, the Hamilton County Health Department provides access to the Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form, which can be signed at local hospitals like Erlanger Health System or CHI Memorial Hospital.

One common challenge faced by many in our community is navigating the complexities of paternity when parents are unmarried. This can be particularly stressful for fathers who wish to be involved in their child's life but are unsure of their legal standing. Additionally, mothers seeking child support may find the process daunting without proper guidance. Our Chattanooga paternity attorneys are well-versed in these local dynamics and can help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

We also recognize that the legal process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with administrative orders or court petitions. The Tennessee Department of Human Services often steps in when public assistance is involved, adding another layer of complexity. Our team is here to help you navigate these local systems, ensuring that you have the support you need every step of the way.

By working with our Chattanooga paternity lawyers, you can rest assured that we understand the unique challenges faced by families in our area. Whether you're dealing with the Hamilton County Juvenile Court or seeking assistance from local child support services, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for you and your child.

Contact Our Chattanooga Paternity Lawyer Today

Establishing paternity can be a complex and emotional process. If you are a father who wants to establish your parental rights, or if you are a mother who wants to establish paternity to obtain child support, our Chattanooga paternity attorneys can help. We can guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights and options. Our attorneys can also represent you in court and work to protect your rights and best interests.

Ready to establish paternity? Call (423) 299-4489 or contact us online to schedule a FREE consultation with a father rights lawyer near you.

Commonly Asked Questions