What if the father chooses not to take a paternity test?

In the state of Florida, if the father chooses not to take a paternity test, that individual is still legally assumed to be the father. This means that they are obligated to financially provide for the child, just like any other father would. This means providing for the child’s needs such as food, shelter, and medical care. If the father does not wish to establish paternity, then the mother can initiate a paternity case in court. Through the court, the court can order the father to take a paternity test. This will give the father an opportunity to prove to the court that he is not the father and avoid the legal obligation of providing support for the child. The father will remain the legal father until a court order declares otherwise. If he does not cooperate or fails to appear at court, then the court can declare the individual to be the father by default. It is important to note that the court may also order the father to pay back any support payments he has received during this time. Overall, the court is the final determining factor when it comes to paternity in the state of Florida. If the father does not take a paternity test, then he may still be determined to be the father but will eventually need to prove to the court that he is not the father.

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