In Florida, when a mother is married and gives birth to a child, the law assumes that the mother’s husband is the child’s father. When a mother is not married at the time she gives birth, then paternity must be established. But why should I establish paternity? Well first, by establishing paternity, you are identifying the legal father of the child. This gives rights and benefits to the mother, the father and the child. Some of these benefits may include:
- Important family medical history information
- The child knowing the identity of his or her father
- The father’s name being listed on the birth certificate
- Give the child the father’s last name (if not given at birth)
- Obtaining health insurance from either parent (if it is available)
- Obtaining life insurance from either parent (if it is available)
- Support from both parents, like child support and medical support
- and sometimes, social security or veteran’s benefits, military allowances and inheritances
Establishing paternity also gives both parents the legal right to obtain a child support order, get court ordered time-sharing and having a say in the decisions regarding the child.
For more information regarding establishing paternity and how we can assist you with your paternity/family law case, you can contact the law office of Schwam-Wilcox & Associates.
