Understanding Paternity Providing personalized legal counsel for your family matters.

St. Louis Paternity Attorney

Helping to Establish Paternity in Missouri

Paternity testToday, more and more children are being born outside of a marital relationship. While common, it can lead to legal complications. When this occurs, it is necessary for both parents to establish a legal and emotional relationship with the child. This means that legal steps may need to be taken to file a paternity case before a parent can begin to work with another parent on raising that child.

It's important that you speak with a St. Louis paternity lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected.

Have questions about paternity issues? Contact us online to request your initial consultation!

How to File for Paternity in Missouri

If you are the father of a child born outside of a marriage, it is necessary to file a court action to formally establish that you are the biological father of the child. You can do this in two ways:

  • Both parents sign an Affidavit Acknowledging Paternity at the hospital where the child is born.
  • The Family Support Division can assist with obtaining an order naming the man as the father of the child.

In Missouri, a father must file a paternity action to formally establish his right to have visitation and custody of a child. This means it is important for fathers to act quickly after their child is born so they are not stuck on the sidelines in the early years of their children’ lives.

Mothers' Important Information for Mothers and Paternity in Missouri

If you are the mother of a child born outside of a marriage, it is beneficial to file a court action so that certain legal rights can be formally provided from the father.

The following can be established through proving paternity:

Children also thrive in an environment that provides consistency. By filing a paternity action, a mother can establish a visitation plan that will ensure a consistent schedule for the child, thereby eliminating what can often be constant arguments regarding the child. Mothers often need financial assistance from the father to contribute to the many expenses associated with a young child.

Filing paternity action also allows the mother to seek and obtain an order from the court requiring the father to pay child support, as well as contribute to the costs and expenses associated with the prenatal care, birthing, medical care, and overall upbringing of the child.

Ready to Establish Paternity? Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

HEAR FROM OUR CLIENTS

  • “She provided thoughtful, zealous representation and consistently exceeded my expectations.”

    J.M.

  • “They really do care about there clients and want what is best for them!”

    C.C.

  • “This firm and mainly it’s co-owner Jamie are the main reasons you still see pictures of me and my son like this.”

    K.W.

  • “Mr. Pedano could not have done a better job representing me through my divorce.”

    E.C.

  • “No one wants to go through a divorce but if you find yourself having to deal with one, I highly recommend Jamie.”

    D. E.

  • “I am truly thankful to have retained him to represent me and the best interest of my child.”

    M.E.

  • “They have stood by my side during every tough decision or set back and guided me through the important decision-making processes.”

    A.M.

  • “Mike exudes a trustworthy disposition from the moment he takes your case, and it doesn’t take long to know he was the right hire!”

    M.Y.

  • “I sincerely appreciate her professionalism and ability to take care of her clients!”

    R.C.

  • “Through it all, Jamie kept calm and we kept our heads high.”

    Melani

  • “I needed a fast divorce and she delivered.”

    J.C.

  • “Thank you for everything you have done for my family.”

    Former Client