Establish Paternity, Protect Parent’s Rights, and Secure Child Support
When parents are not married at the time of a child’s birth, legal paternity must be
established before the court can order parental responsibility, timesharing, or child
support. Without a court order, a father does not have enforceable rights – and a
mother does not have enforceable financial obligations.
How to Establish Paternity in Fort Myers
- Florida paternity actions are governed by Florida Statutes Chapter 742. Paternity may be established through:
- Voluntary acknowledgment
- Genetic (DNA) testing
- Filing a court action to determine paternity
Once a paternity is legally established, the court can enter orders regarding parenting
and support.
Parent’s Rights, Parenting Plans & Timesharing
Establishing paternity allows parents to seek:
- Shared Parental Responsibility
- A Court-Approved Parenting Plan
- A defined timesharing schedule
- Participation in major decisions affecting the child
Florida courts determine parenting issues based on the child’s best interests under
Florida Statutes 61.13.
We represent one parent in paternity actions – never both parties in the same matter – to create to create practical, customized plans that reduce conflict and support long-term co-parenting stability.
Child Support in Florida Paternity Cases
Child support is calculated under statutory guidelines based on:
- Each parent’s income
- Health insurance and child care costs
- The number of overnights exercised
Whether you are seeking support or responding to a claim, we ensure accurate
financial analysis and strategic advocacy.
A Collaborative and Problem – Solving Approach
Paternity cases can become adversarial quickly. Our firm focuses on:
- Negotiated, efficient resolutions
- Respectful communications
- Child-centered solutions
- Durable agreements that minimize future disputes
We are fully prepared to litigate when necessary; however, whenever possible, we guide families toward negotiated resolutions that reduce unnecessary conflict. When parental rights are decided solely by a judge, the result almost always leads to ongoing disputes and continued tension between parents. A thoughtfully developed, mutually agreed-upon Parenting Plan provides greater clarity, stability, and long-term benefits for your child. In many cases, one of the most meaningful gifts parents can provide is a cooperative framework that minimizes conflict and supports healthy co-parenting.
Speak with a Fort Myers Paternity Attorney
If you are searching for a Florida Paternity Lawyer to establish parental rights, secure
timesharing, and/or address child support, contact our office today to schedule a
confidential consultation.