Paternity in Arizona
Helping Parents Secure Custody, Support, and Parental Rights
At Hernandez Family Law, we help fathers, mothers, and families navigate the complex and emotional process of establishing paternity. Whether you’re seeking to secure your parental rights or ensure your child receives the support they deserve, we’re here to guide you through every step.
What Is Paternity?
Paternity is the legal recognition of a man as a child’s father. When a child is born to unmarried parents, the father does not automatically have legal rights or responsibilities. In Arizona, paternity must be established before issues like custody, parenting time, and child support can be legally resolved.
Without a legal determination of paternity, a father may not have:
- The right to make decisions about the child’s upbringing
- The ability to seek custody or parenting time
- Legal standing to object to relocation or adoption
- Responsibility to pay child support
Establishing paternity gives both parents clear rights—and gives the child a secure legal relationship with both mom and dad.
How to Establish Paternity in Arizona
Paternity can be established in one of two ways:
1. Voluntary Acknowledgment
If both parents agree on who the father is, they can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity. This is often done at the hospital shortly after the child is born but can also be completed later through the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
2. Court-Ordered Paternity
If there is a dispute or uncertainty, either parent (or the state) can file a petition to establish paternity through the courts. In most cases, the court will order genetic testing to confirm the biological relationship.
Once paternity is legally established, the court can move forward with decisions regarding child support, custody (legal decision-making), and parenting time.
Why Establishing Paternity Matters
For the father, it opens the door to be actively involved in the child’s life through custody or parenting time.
For the mother, it can secure financial support and clarify legal responsibilities.
For the child, it provides:
- Access to both parents’ medical histories
- Eligibility for health insurance, Social Security, and inheritance
- Emotional security from having both parents legally recognized
What If You’re Not Sure You’re the Father?
If you’ve been named in a paternity action but aren’t certain you’re the biological father, you have the right to request DNA testing before any legal decisions are made. We can represent you during this process and help protect your interests.
Let Hernandez Family Law Help
Whether you’re trying to establish paternity or responding to a claim, it’s important to have experienced legal guidance. At Hernandez Family Law, we’ll help you understand your rights, complete the necessary steps, and advocate for the best possible outcome for you and your child.
Contact Us Today
Don’t wait to resolve questions about paternity. The sooner paternity is established, the sooner you can move forward with building a secure legal foundation for your child.
Call Hernandez Family Law today to schedule a consultation and get the legal support you need to establish or challenge paternity in Arizona.
Ready to Talk?
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. We’ll explain how the process works, help you determine if it’s right for your situation, and guide you toward the path that best supports your family’s well-being.
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