If you’re not married but have children together, you might wonder about your legal rights. As a father, you may want a dependable schedule for spending time with your child, and a say in their education and medical decisions. As a mother, you might be concerned about giving parenting time without a court order to ensure the safety and well-being of your child.

At Toner Law Office, P.A., we understand the complexities of paternity cases and the importance of getting clarity on parenting rights and responsibilities.

A paternity case is necessary to establish the legal father of a child when the parents are not married. A court order is required to address parenting time, child support, and shared parental responsibility. Simply having the father’s name on the birth certificate is not sufficient. Establishing paternity legally is the first step toward creating a stable environment for your child.

Gena Toner, a Board-Certified Marital & Family Law attorney with over 35 years of experience, can guide you through the paternity process. She’ll help you understand what to expect, including what is reasonable in a paternity case and how to work toward your children’s best interests. Gena has the expertise to represent your interests, whether through mediation or in court.

Once paternity is legally established, you and the other parent will have a clear parenting plan, including a defined schedule and rights to make important decisions for your child. Child support can also be calculated, providing financial stability for your child’s needs.