Paternity Attorney in Humble, Texas

Any kind of family law dispute can be complex and emotional. Here in Texas, issues involving paternity are no different. Whether you are a father seeking custody or visitation rights, a mother looking to implement child support, or facing any other paternity-related concerns, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed at times. That’s why it’s so important to reach out for legal guidance as soon as possible. 

During this challenging and uncertain time for you and your family, contact our team at Elizabeth S. Pagel, PLLC. Our paternity attorney is dedicated to peaceful resolutions while still upholding your rights throughout the process. No matter where you live in Texas—including Harris County, Montgomery County, Liberty County, and the rest of the state—contact us today for a one-on-one consultation.  

Why Is Paternity Important?

Throughout this process, it’s important to remind yourself: paternity matters. Issues involving paternity are deeply impactful for children, for mothers, and for fathers. Let’s take a closer look: 

For the Child

Paternity is crucial for a child's well-being and future. Establishing legal paternity provides the child with access to support from both parents. Of course, this support goes beyond monetary contributions—it also encompasses emotional support and guidance through these formative years. Both anecdotal and scientific data bear out the truth that the relationship between a child and their biological parents has a profound impact on the child’s self-esteem and personal development. 

For the Mother

For mothers, establishing paternity helps ensure that they can seek financial support from the child's father. This support helps cover the costs associated with raising a child, such as healthcare, education, day-to-day expenses, and more. Paternity can also provide a sense of security for the mother, knowing that she doesn't have to shoulder the burden of being a parent alone. 

For the Father

Fathers have a lot to gain by establishing paternity, too. Paternity allows them to have a legal say in their child's life, including decisions about important decisions regarding the child. It also enables them to build a meaningful relationship with their child and take on the responsibilities of parenthood. In cases where the mother has custody, establishing paternity can grant the father visitation rights, allowing him to be a part of his child's life. 

Establishing Paternity in Texas

In Texas, paternity can be established through both voluntary and involuntary methods: 

Voluntary Paternity Establishment 

Voluntary paternity establishment is the preferred method when both parents agree on the child's biological relationship to the father. This process involves signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) form, usually done at the hospital shortly after the child's birth. Both parents' signatures on the AOP form create a legal father-child relationship. 

Involuntary Paternity Establishment 

In cases where there is a dispute about paternity, involuntary methods could be used to establish paternity. The court may order DNA testing to determine biological parentage. If the test results confirm the alleged father as the biological father, the court will issue a paternity order. 

When Paternity Disputes Occur

Paternity disputes, like other disputes involving your family, can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. When disagreements arise about a child's parentage, there are specific legal processes in Texas to help resolve these concerns: 

Petition to Establish Parentage

Here in Texas, any interested party can file a Petition to Establish Parentage. So what constitutes an “interested party”? This means the mother, the father, the child, a government entity (like the Child Support Division of the Attorney General's Office), or any other individual who can show a legitimate interest in the case. Filing a petition initiates the legal process to establish paternity. 

DNA Testing

DNA testing is a vital tool in resolving paternity disputes. It is a highly accurate and scientifically reliable method for determining biological parentage. If there is uncertainty or disagreement regarding the child's paternity, a court-ordered DNA test can provide conclusive evidence. Once paternity is confirmed through a DNA test, the court will issue a paternity order, which legally establishes the father's relationship with the child. 

How a Skilled Texas Attorney Can Help 

Navigating the rough waters of paternity law in Texas can be overwhelming, especially when emotions are running high. A family law attorney can assist you in a number of ways, including offering accurate legal counsel, facilitating discussions between all parties, filing all necessary paperwork in an accurate and timely manner, and advocating for your rights in court.  

We understand the toll that paternity disputes can take on our clients. Our team is here to provide emotional support and empathy throughout the process so that you feel heard and understood. You deserve to find a path forward—our team will walk by your side every step of the way.