At Foley Freeman, we handle a full range of family law matters on behalf of clients throughout southern Idaho, including cases involving questions of paternity. Establishing or challenging paternity is a major decision for parents that will affect a child in profound ways. We appreciate the seriousness of the issue and work tirelessly to obtain the right result for our client.
Our firm is dedicated to supporting families in Boise as they navigate paternity and related family law matters.
Benefits of Establishing Paternity
Establishing paternity is very important for a child. Establishing paternity is also crucial for children in general, as it ensures their needs are met and their rights are protected. First, the child receives the emotional benefit of knowing the identity of his or her parents, and it often takes the income and resources of both parents to fairly support a child. Also, establishing paternity legally entitles the child to the same rights and privileges as those of a child whose parents are married, including:
- Legal documentation identifying both parents at the time of the child’s birth
- The names of both parents on the child’s birth certificate
- Access to the health histories of both the mother and father for medical care and treatment of the child
- Medical insurance and life insurance coverage from either parent
- The right to inherit from either parent
- The right to receive social security and veterans’ benefits if available
Establishing paternity also helps secure the child’s future by ensuring access to important rights and resources.
Once paternity is established, a court can make orders for child support, health insurance, child custody, visitation, and reimbursement of pregnancy and birth expenses. Without establishing paternity, however, a court cannot make orders regarding these issues. If one parent needs child support and the other will not pay voluntarily, the court will not be able to order child support until paternity is established.
Paternity Establishment in Idaho
A mother, father, or child each has the right to establish paternity depending on the individual desires of the parties involved. In Idaho, there are three ways to establish paternity:
- Through a judicial proceeding, such as a paternity order or divorce decree.
- Through a voluntary acknowledgement filed with the state’s Vital Statistics Unit.
- Through marriage, if the parents were married at the time of the child’s conception, at the time of the child’s birth, or the parents subsequently marry and sign an Acknowledgement of Paternity or Subsequent Marriage and Surname of Child form, to be filed with the Vital Statistics Unit.
When paternity is agreed upon by the parents, signing an Acknowledgement of Paternity is a relatively routine matter, and if necessary, child support and custody can be involved in the same proceeding. When paternity is disputed, however, the process can be much more complex, requiring court appearances and compelled DNA testing. A dna test is often required by the court to confirm biological parentage and secure legal rights and child support. At Foley Freeman, our family law attorneys have represented both mothers and fathers in paternity actions, helping clients prove or exclude paternity based on the circumstances at hand.
PATERNITY DISPUTES AND RESOLUTION
Paternity disputes can be some of the most emotionally charged and complex family law matters that parents face. When questions arise about a child’s birth and parentage, it is crucial to establish paternity not only for the child’s emotional well-being but also to ensure they receive the financial support and legal rights they deserve. In Idaho, resolving these disputes is essential for determining child support, custody, and visitation, and for protecting the interests of both the mother and father.
At Foley Freeman, our team of Boise family law attorneys brings over a decade of experience to every paternity case. We understand that every family’s circumstances are unique, and we are committed to providing compassionate guidance and personalized legal counsel to our clients. Whether you are a mother seeking to establish paternity for your child’s benefit, or a father wishing to assert your parental rights, our attorneys are well-versed in Idaho family law and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your family.
Contested Paternity
When paternity is contested, the process can involve court appearances, legal filings, and often DNA testing to determine the biological relationship between parent and child. Our attorneys are experienced in managing the entire process, from initiating a court order for DNA testing to working with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and the Vital Statistics Unit. We ensure that our clients are informed and supported at every step, using automated technology to provide timely updates and virtual consultations for your convenience. Our valid phone number and online scheduling make it easy for new clients to request a consultation and begin the process of resolving their legal issues.
In addition to paternity disputes, our firm handles a wide range of family law matters, including divorce, custody, child support, visitation, and adoptions. We are familiar with the court systems in Canyon County, the Treasure Valley, and throughout southern Idaho, allowing us to provide effective representation tailored to your local needs. Our focus is always on the best interest of the child and the well-being of your loved ones, and we fight to ensure that your family’s rights and interests are protected.
If you are dealing with a paternity dispute or any other family law issue, seeking assistance from a knowledgeable family law attorney is essential. At Foley Freeman, we are dedicated to helping clients navigate the legal process with confidence and compassion. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let our experienced team help you achieve the best possible outcome for your child and your family.
Seek Advice & Representation from an Experienced Boise Paternity Lawyer
Establishing paternity can be a sensitive matter, especially when paternity is yet unknown or contested. If you live in the Boise Valley and need assistance with a paternity issue, please contact Foley Freeman to speak with our experienced Idaho attorneys. Based in Meridian, we serve clients throughout southern Idaho, including the cities of Eagle and Caldwell.