PaternityEstablishing paternity determines the legal status of biological parents who weren't married when their child was born. For unmarried parents in Missouri, establishing paternity is a critical legal step that protects the rights of both parents and ensures the child's well-being.
Why Establishing Paternity Matters
Establishing legal paternity provides important benefits for everyone involved:
For the child: Access to medical history, inheritance rights, Social Security benefits, veterans' benefits, and health insurance coverage
For fathers: Legal rights to seek custody or visitation, and the ability to participate in important decisions about the child's upbringing
For mothers: The ability to seek child support and establish legal responsibilities for both parents
Missouri law requires paternity establishment before courts can enter orders for custody, visitation, or support for children born to unmarried parents.
What the Petition Addresses
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Custody Arrangements
-Legal custody (decision-making authority regarding the child's health, education, and welfare)
-Physical custody (where the child will primarily reside)
-A detailed Parenting Plan with specific schedules for both parents -
Child Support
-Financial obligations based on Missouri's child support guidelines
-Health insurance coverage for the children
-Work-related childcare expenses
-Other necessary support provisions -
Visitation and Parenting Time
Missouri law recognizes that a child has a right to frequent, continuing and meaningful contact with both parents, as appropriate. A court order for parenting time (also called visitation) is enforceable by the court and provides clarity and protection for both parents' rights.
Don't navigate this complex process alone. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve the best outcome for you and your children. We understand Missouri's paternity and child support laws and will work diligently to protect your interests and your child's well-being.