Paternity & Father's Rights
Miami Paternity & Father's Rights Attorney
When parents are not married, establishing paternity is the first step to protect a child's rights and a father's relationship with his child. Attorney Ada M. Barreto represents fathers and mothers in paternity cases throughout South Florida.
How We Can Help
What Florida Law Says
When a child is born to unmarried parents, Florida law gives the mother the care of the child until a court orders otherwise. A father who is not married to the mother does not have court-enforceable time-sharing rights until a court enters an order, even if he is listed on the birth certificate.
Paternity can be established by a voluntary acknowledgment signed by both parents, by genetic (DNA) testing, or through a court case. Once paternity is established, the court can decide parental responsibility, time-sharing and child support. Paternity cases are governed by Chapter 742 of the Florida Statutes.
The Process
Consultation
We review your situation and goals.
Petition
A petition to establish paternity is filed with the court.
DNA testing
If paternity is disputed, the court can order genetic testing.
Mediation
Parents try to agree on a parenting plan and child support.
Final judgment
The court establishes paternity and sets parental responsibility, time-sharing and support.