Establishing paternity is a critical element in legal cases involving child custody and spousal support. While many times paternity is proven immediately after the birth of a child in Indiana, there are some instances where paternity is not legally valid, or it was incorrect. Indiana paternity disputes in Allen County can involve a wide range of legal issues, making it crucial that you work through them with help from an experienced paternity lawyer.
Your Allen County Paternity Team
The Indiana family lawyers at Stange Law Firm, PC, understand how frustrating and emotional paternity cases may become. Our dedicated lawyers have spent years helping families across Indiana navigate contentious child custody and family law disputes and are committed to protecting your interests. Whether you’re trying to establish paternity or fight for custody, our team can provide you with the knowledge, tools, and support you need to secure a successful outcome.
Establishing and De-Establishing Paternity in Indiana
Many children living in Indiana do not have a father in their lives. In 2023, the general child population in Indiana was around 1,587,254, and approximately 32% of those children resided in single-parent homes. Establishing paternity in Indiana can be beneficial for a mother, father, and child alike, as it allows a father to play a larger role in their child’s life.
One of the primary methods of establishing paternity in accordance with Indiana law is through the use of a paternity affidavit. The father and mother sign this document at their local hospital when their baby is born, and they must do so within 72 hours of the child’s birth. However, Indiana parents may also sign the paternity affidavit at a local health department after the 72-hour period ends.
The father may also file for genetic testing within 60 days of the signing of the paternity affidavit to establish he is not the biological father of the child. However, at the end of 60 days, the paternity affidavit may be revoked only if the father establishes that he was coerced into signing it. If you are trying to disprove paternity in Indiana, you should hire a paternity lawyer who can help you collect evidence and fight for your interests in court.
The Relationship Between Child Support and Paternity Laws
Paternity is a legal connection between a father and a child in Indiana. Child support is ordered by a court as part of a divorce proceeding or when parents separate to ensure both parents still care for a child. A man who establishes paternity in Indiana can receive parental rights, such as custody and visitation. If he receives these rights, he may also be mandated to pay child support.
Child support payments can be established if a mother or father in Indiana legally establishes paternity. Penalties for not paying child support payments include incarceration, liens, suspension of driving privileges, and the revocation of tax refunds by the State of Indiana. Understanding how paternity can influence your financial security is critical when you are involved in a paternity dispute.
Hire a Paternity Lawyer in Indiana Today
After years of practicing family law in Indiana, the paternity lawyers at Stange Law Firm, PC, know how to help clients feel at ease when they are concerned about legal issues related to parental rights. We provide legal support and representation to those who are facing complex paternity disputes and family law issues in Indiana. Our knowledge of family law, insight into local courtroom procedures, and passion for our clients help us provide superior services.
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Paternity Lawyer in Indiana?
If you’re looking to hire an Indiana paternity lawyer, the total price you pay will depend on multiple elements. These elements include the specific type of services you need, how long your lawyer works on your case, the experience your lawyer has, and more. You should ask your lawyer what fees they charge during your initial consultation, as some lawyers in Indiana charge by the hour while others may employ flat fees.
Can a Father Legally Deny Paternity in Indiana?
A father may deny paternity under Indiana law; however, he can only do so in certain circumstances. This often requires DNA testing and filing certain forms with the court. The evidence an individual may present to deny paternity includes statements regarding sexual activity, the mother’s relationship with another male, and DNA test results. Biological testing is often the main method courts use to test a father’s denial of paternity.
When Should You Hire an Indiana Paternity Lawyer?
Realistically, you should hire a paternity lawyer in Indiana as soon as you are involved in a paternity dispute or need to legally establish paternity. Parental rights and the laws surrounding them in Indiana are complex, and it’s crucial that you don’t make mistakes throughout legal proceedings.
What Is Considered an Unstable Parent in Indiana?
Sometimes in paternity cases, courts will look at other factors to determine whether a parent establishing paternity is safe enough to have child custody. The court may look at whether a parent is unstable, which could include whether they have a steady, safe living space for the child to stay in, if they have a history of substance abuse, or if they have a history of domestic violence.
Stange Law Firm, PC: Indiana’s Family Law Firm
Cases involving paternity and child custody in Indiana can become contentious quickly, making it crucial that you have a legal advocate who can speak up for you and your child’s interests. If you’re dealing with paternity issues in Indiana, don’t wait to seek legal counsel.
The Stange Law Firm, PC, has spent years helping families find effective solutions to family law cases, including paternity disputes. Whether you’re looking to establish paternity or need to enforce a child support order, our team is here to help. Contact Stange Law Firm, PC today to learn more about our paternity services in Indiana and how we can help.