Paternity Lawyers in El Paso

The first step depends on whether both parents agree on who the father is. If paternity is not disputed, parents can sign an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP), which is a legal form that establishes the father’s rights and responsibilities without going to court. If there is disagreement, or if one parent refuses to sign, paternity can be established by filing a petition to adjudicate parentage with the court. Once the case is filed, the court can issue orders for genetic testing and ultimately enter a legal ruling confirming paternity.

A DNA test is not always required. If both parents agree and sign an AOP, paternity is legally established without genetic testing. However, if paternity is disputed or uncertain, the court may order genetic testing, which is highly accurate and legally recognized in Texas. DNA testing is often the quickest way to resolve disputes and provides clear evidence that the court can rely on when issuing orders involving custody, visitation, and child support.

Yes. In Texas, an unmarried father can seek custody or visitation, but he must first establish legal paternity. Once paternity is confirmed via an AOP or a court order, the father has the right to request conservatorship (custody), visitation schedules, and decision-making authority. Texas courts focus on the best interests of the child, meaning the father may be granted custody or shared parenting time if it supports the child’s safety, stability, and well-being.

Once paternity is legally established, the father becomes responsible for supporting the child financially. This includes the obligation to pay child support, contribute to medical expenses, and provide health insurance when required. Establishing paternity also ensures the child may receive important benefits such as inheritance rights, access to the father’s medical history, and eligibility for certain insurance or government benefits. Child support is calculated using Texas guidelines based largely on income and the number of children being supported.

Yes, but challenging paternity is not easy once it has been legally established. Texas courts require strong evidence and strict legal procedures to overturn paternity, especially if an AOP has been signed or a court order has already been issued. In some cases, a man may be able to challenge paternity if he later discovers he is not the biological father, but deadlines and legal requirements apply. Because paternity affects custody rights, child support obligations, and the child’s stability, courts are cautious about reversing an established legal father-child relationship.