Family law
Paternity and Parenting Time
Paternity proceedings establish the legal parentage of a child born outside of marriage, creating the legal basis for custody, parenting time, and support rights and obligations.
Overview
What to understand about paternity and parenting time.
When a child is born outside of marriage, the legal relationship between the father and child must be formally established. In Michigan, paternity may be established voluntarily by affidavit or through a court proceeding.
Once paternity is established, the court can address custody, parenting time, and child support — applying the same standards that apply in divorce proceedings.
Who this serves
- ●Unmarried parents seeking to establish parenting rights
- ●Parents addressing support obligations for children born outside marriage
- ●Those challenging or confirming parentage
Common issues
What these matters typically involve.
- Establishing legal paternity
- Custody and parenting time for unmarried parents
- Child support obligations
- Parenting time enforcement
Process
How these matters proceed.
Paternity may be established voluntarily through a signed affidavit, or through a court proceeding including genetic testing if paternity is contested. Once established, the court can enter orders for custody, parenting time, and support.
How the firm approaches this
Quist Homier Law on paternity and parenting time.
The firm helps both mothers and fathers understand their rights and responsibilities in paternity matters and navigate the legal process efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about paternity and parenting time.
A voluntary acknowledgment of paternity can be challenged, but only within a limited time period and on specific grounds. After the challenge period expires, it becomes more difficult to revoke the acknowledgment. An attorney can explain the current applicable rules and timelines.
These answers are provided for general informational purposes and do not constitute legal advice. The law varies by jurisdiction and by the specific facts of each situation. Contact the firm to discuss your matter.
Attorneys who handle this
Discuss your paternity and parenting time matter with the firm.
Contact Quist Homier Law to understand your options. No representation is accepted through this form.
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