Longwood Paternity Attorney
The purpose of a paternity case is to determine the natural and legal father of a minor child and to establish their legal rights and duties as the father. Establishing paternity is crucial as Florida courts have no authority to issue any orders against the presumed father without legal proof. That means a mother cannot go to the court to pursue a child support order without legal proof of who the father is. Paternity cases can be complicated, which is why you should retain an experienced Longwood paternity attorney.
If you need assistance with a paternity matter, The Troum Law Firm, P.A. is here to help. We understand the legal paternity process, and we can help both mothers and fathers with paternity-related matters.
Blood Paternity Tests Used in Longwood Paternity Cases
Paternity in Florida can be established in several different ways. The most common method is through blood testing. Two main types of tests are used in court. These tests are:
- Human Leukocyte Antigen Blood Test (HLA) —Florida law says that if an HLA test determines that there is a 95% or greater statistical probability, then there is a rebuttable presumption that this person is the biological father.
- DNA Testing —The other option is a DNA test, which compares the genetic code to the mother and possible biological father. Everyone has one-half of their DNA from their mother and the other half from their father. By comparing the mother’s and father’s DNA, experts can determine whether someone is a child’s biological father.
What Do Florida Paternity Blood Tests Cost?
The cost of each test is similar. The test cost is typically a little higher when it’s related to a court case. Most likely, you can expect to pay somewhere around $300 to $500 in most cases. Who is paying for the test is usually the most significant issue. The petitioning mother might be the one who fronts the costs initially. However, if the results come back that the alleged father is the biological father, then the court might require him to reimburse her for all tests’ costs.
In some situations, both parties might agree to share the costs of the testing initially. If the alleged father is the biological father, then he may reimburse the mother. If the alleged father is not the biological father, then the mother could have to reimburse his share of the costs.
Benefits and Rights for a Child in a Paternity Hearing
There are numerous benefits for your child when you establish paternity. Some of these include:
- Important family medical history;
- A child will know who their father is;
- Could be eligible for essential benefits, like health insurance;
- The father’s name can be listed on the birth certificate;
- Financial support from both parents; and
- Could be eligible for veterans’ benefits, inheritances, military allowances, etc.
Contact a Longwood Paternity Attorney
Do you have questions about how a Florida paternity case works? If so, let our skilled legal team help. Contact The Troum Law Firm, P.A. today to schedule an initial consultation. Let us help you help with all your family law needs.
