This is the final post in a series of articles discussing the importance of establishing paternity for Las Vegas, Nevada fathers. This series has focused on the importance of taking the necessary steps to legally establish a father’s paternity. Doing so is essential to protecting a father’s parental rights to his child. One goal of this series has been to explain the legal process of establishing paternity. Another objective has been to provide information about how to proceed once paternity is settled, including formalizing custody and support arrangements. If you are a Las Vegas dad who needs assistance with paternity issues, contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
The following topics were addressed throughout this series:
- Why fathers should establish paternity as soon as possible
- The initial steps to establish paternity and custody
- Attending the court’s mandatory mediation
- Dealing with back child support and compensatory visitation
- The importance of discovery in the paternity process
- What to expect at trial
- Dealing with the child’s mother after the case has concluded
When paternity is in question, Las Vegas fathers should understand these points for a variety of reasons. First, in the eyes of the law, a father has no parental rights if his paternity has not been established. It is essential to take quick action to settle paternity to protect your rights. Second, it is important to know how to establish your status as the legally recognized father. Third, when the parties disagree on custody issues, the court may refer their case to mediation. Fourth, fathers should understand their parental rights and responsibilities once paternity is established. These include visitation and access as well as the obligation to financially support the child. A father whose paternity is established later in the child’s life may be required to pay back child support and may also be entitled to compensatory visitation. Fifth, to establish permanent custody arrangements, the parties may be required to engage in discovery. Sixth, if a custody matter proceeds to trial, it is important to have a basic understanding of the process. Finally, it is important to work together with the child’s mother and comply with all applicable court orders following the conclusion of the case.
For the reasons addressed throughout this series, fathers should take the necessary steps to protect their parental rights. My office represents Las Vegas fathers in paternity and custody matters. If you are an unmarried father and wish to establish paternity for your child, contact my office today to speak to a lawyer.