Handling Paternity Issues at Our Family Law Firm
Under Illinois law there is a legal presumption that a child born during a marriage is the product of the marriage. This presumption can be rebutted, however, and the husband proven to not be the father, usually through DNA testing.
Acknowledgement of Paternity
If a child is born and the mother is not married, there is no marital presumption. No one is presumed to be the father. In this context, the "Acknowledgment of Paternity" was created. The "Acknowledgment of Paternity" is a written, sworn legal document, signed under oath by both the unmarried mother and the alleged father.
Under certain circumstances this admission of parentage by the alleged father cannot be rebutted and cannot be reversed, even if DNA tests later show that the alleged father is not the actual biological father.
The law requires fathers to support their children and encourages them to stay involved
Why Is Paternity an Issue?
Time is a crucial element in every Parentage case. Failure to promptly assert parental rights can result in your child being removed from the State or even adopted without your consent. Not until Parentage has been established do the usual parenting issues of custody, visitation and support apply.
Contact a Parentage Law Attorney for Help Today
At the law firm of Wakenight & Associates, P.C. our family law attorneys can help with any type of paternity matter. We represent men and women in matters related to parentage. For answers to questions about paternity, contact our law firm and speak with an attorney.
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In Cook County or Lake County call
888-482-4975.
In DuPage County or Kane County call
888-852-2670, and
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