Establish paternity and determine a clear path forward
These days more couples are having children without getting married. Depending on your situation at the time the child is born, you may need help establishing paternity. As mediators, we can help you and the other parent establish paternity. We can also assist you in developing any parenting plan that may be necessary if you’re not living together.
Establishing paternity can ensure that your rights are solidified when it comes to your child. There are many benefits for your child, including the obvious benefits of financial support and health insurance, as well as eligibility for other public benefits if the child would be an heir to the father’s estate and the father is disabled or a veteran.
Establishing paternity is an important first step in obtaining child support
In addition to providing the basis for obtaining financial support from the other parent, establishing paternity gives a child born to unmarried parents the legal rights and privileges of a child born within a marriage. Those rights and privileges may include:
- Support from both parents
- Legal documentation of who their parents are
- Access to family medical records (many diseases, illnesses, birth defects, and other health problems are passed to children by their parents)
- Medical and life insurance coverage from either parent, if available
- Inheritance rights
- Social Security and Veteran’s benefits, if available
- The emotional benefits of knowing who both parents are
Once paternity is established, a parenting plan is essential
In addition to establishing paternity, we can also work with both you and your co-parent to put in place a parenting plan that works for your lives. We understand that every family is different, and we want to make sure that you and your co-parent can cooperate to establish a plan that benefits both you and your child(ren).
Related Articles
What Does the Workplace Setting Look Like for San Diego Family Mediation Services- A Hybrid Model
In today’s fast-paced world, technology continues to revolutionize business practices. While these advancements offer new possibilities, many businesses struggle to implement systems that truly work for all parties involved, employees and clients alike. At West Coast Family Mediation, we understand … Read More
Finding Balance in the Holiday Hustle
As the holiday season rolls in, it brings a mix of joy, celebration, and a healthy dose of stress. Working in mediation, I’ve seen firsthand how this time of year can stir up a whirlwind of emotions. It’s like navigating … Read More