How do I initiate a paternity suit?

In order to initiate a paternity suit in Florida, an individual must first file a Petition to Establish Parental Responsibility. This Petition is filed with the court and then served to the other party. The individual filing the Petition must provide the court with the necessary information, including the full name and address of the party being served, the name and address of the filing party, and a statement of the facts that support the claim. Additionally, the petition must include the names and birth dates of the child or children in question and any other facts relevant to the case. Once the Petition is filed, the other party must be served with a Summons. The Summons must be delivered to the other party in-person or by certified mail. This Summons informs the other party of the time, place, and date of the court hearing, as well as the specific legal issues to be addressed in the pregnancy suit. At the court hearing, both parties must appear in order to present their case for paternity. Each person may be represented by an attorney. During the hearing, the court will consider the facts of the case and the relevant law, and a judge will make a final determination as to paternity. If the judge finds in favor of paternity, an order of paternity will be entered into the court. This order will be legally binding and enforceable, both by the state of Florida and by the two parties, in regards to issues related to parental responsibilities, such as child support, custody, and visitation rights.

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How do I initiate a paternity suit?

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