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​Indianapolis Paternity Lawyers

Either mother or father may want to establish the paternity of a child in the eyes of the law in order to obtain child support payments, establish custody, and establish parenting time. The father of a child may wish to prove his paternity in order to secure his legal rights to his child. In either case, at Ruppert & Schaefer, P.C., we can advise and represent you.

A lawyer at our firm can explain your rights and the paternity testing procedure, as well as how we may be able to help you. Call us at 317-660-8150 to arrange for a consultation. You may also contact our law firm online.

DNA Tests And Help Establishing Paternity

There are two ways that paternity can be established in Indiana: the mother and father can sign  an affidavit affirming the parentage of the father; or the mother, the father or the child can file a paternity lawsuit. We can help you in any of these scenarios.

A paternity test is always recommended and no longer involves a blood sample. Instead, a sample of DNA is taken from the mouths of the parties and child in a completely painless procedure. The samples are compared, and if the man is found to be the biological father, we can take the appropriate steps to have the man declared the legal father of the child.

The Responsibilities Of Parenthood

The responsibilities of parenthood outside of marriage are just as significant as the responsibilities inside of marriage. One parent of a child may be responsible for child support, health insurance or health care expenses not covered by insurance as well as primary, secondary and college expenses.

Our experienced family law attorneys can take action on behalf of a parent who wishes to establish paternity to obtain child support, custody or parenting time. We can also help with your claim for back child support, and, if needed, seek modification or enforcement of a child support order to obtain the money owed by the parent of the child.

The Rights Of Fatherhood Or Motherhood

Parenthood outside of marriage may result in parental rights such as parenting time or even custody. At our firm, we have extensive experience in paternity matters, and we have the ability to develop and present persuasive arguments before the court. If you wish to pursue your rights through a paternity action, we can represent you. We can also guide clients through alternatives that avoid going to court.

For a consultation with an attorney at Ruppert & Schaefer, P.C., call 317-660-8150 or contact us online. We will assist with your paternity disputes.