Paternity Attorneys in DuPage County

Representing Clients in Oakbrook, Kane County, Kendall County, & Cook County

In Illinois, Paternity cases (also called Parentage cases) include all cases where the parents of minor children are not legally married. This includes unmarried mothers and fathers, or unmarried same-sex couples that have children. The courts will look at issues regarding child support, parenting time, and parenting responsibilities (previously known as custody and visitation). Our attorneys will work with you to establish paternity in Court and define the responsibilities of each parent. 

How to Establish Paternity

Paternity can be voluntarily accepted, or can be proved by DNA testing. Or it can be established in same-sex relationships by a complex set of factors. But even when a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity is signed, the legal process must be followed in order to allocate the rights and responsibilities of each parent. Paternity must be established in the local Court by means of a Court Order in order to set child support and prepare a schedule for parenting time. 

Benefits of Establishing Paternity

The benefits of establishing paternity start with the basics–each parent can have a set schedule for spending time with their child, and financial support can be determined. It’s important to note that establishing legal paternity does not automatically make visitation rights or child support obligations kick in. A separate court order is required for either one. But the establishment of legal paternity provides the basis for a request.

Once a child’s relationship with their parent is legally established, a host of other benefits are possible. The child becomes included in any government benefits that the parent might be eligible for, starting with Social Security survivor’s benefits and including anything associated with military service. The child can also claim inheritance rights from the parent’s estate, if any. And the establishment of paternity is required for children to qualify for medical insurance under a parents’ plan.

Tameling & Associates has been working with parents for over 25 years on important family law issues that include paternity and extend into child support, custody and more. Paternity issues can be emotional, stressful, and complicated. Our experienced Trial Attorneys understand the issues litigate your case and to offer practical solutions for your family. 

From our Oak Brook office, we represent clients across DuPage County, Cook County (both Downtown and Suburban Cook County), Kane County, Will County, and Kendall County.

Call today at (630) 394-5944 or contact us online to set up a consultation.