Establishing paternity is crucial when you have a child and are unmarried. This safeguards both the mother and child, and it grants the father important rights when it comes to custody and parenting time. Please continue reading as we explore how fathers can establish paternity in New York and the importance of connecting with a knowledgeable Suffolk County Fathers’ Rights Attorney for assistance.
What Can I Do to Establish Paternity?
In New York, unmarried fathers have two primary avenues for establishing paternity. First, genetic testing offers a direct method. An accredited laboratory analyzes DNA samples, and a match of 95% or higher typically confirms biological fatherhood in the eyes of the court. It’s important to understand that at-home DNA tests are usually not admissible due to potential inaccuracies and a lack of secure handling.
Secondly, a Certificate of Parentage (COP) provides a simpler route when both parents agree on the child’s biological father. This voluntary form, completed by both the mother and father, acknowledges paternity and is generally the fastest method. Upon completion, the father’s name can be legally added to the child’s birth certificate.
Why is It Important?
Establishing paternity as an unmarried father is crucial to have legal rights, including custody, visitation, and the right to participate in parental decision-making. Once paternity is established, the father is afforded the same rights and responsibilities as a married father. Without established paternity, a father has no inherent right to seek custody and has no legal obligation to provide child support. Establishing paternity alleviates this imbalance, providing a legal pathway for the father to be involved in their child’s life and ensuring the child’s right to financial support from both parents.
Furthermore, establishing paternity can provide the child with numerous benefits. This ensures the child has a legal father, which is vital for emotional well-being. It also secures the child’s right to potential inheritance, Social Security benefits through the father, and access to the father’s lineage and medical history, which can be critical for the child’s healthcare.
It’s important to note that the court will prioritize the best interests of the child when making decisions about custody and visitation. Establishing paternity ensures the father’s rights are considered in these decisions.
Despite statutory provisions, mothers are often still favored, and fathers are left with little to no parenting time. As such, it’s in your best interest to enlist the assistance of The Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C. as soon as possible. Our legal team will work tirelessly to obtain the custody rights that you deserve. We will ensure that the legal system doesn’t take advantage of your rights as an unmarried father. Connect with our firm today to discuss your case.
