What if the father has doubts about his paternity?

When a father has doubts about his paternity, there are a few steps he should take to address his concerns in the state of Texas. A person can voluntarily submit a paternity test to determine if he is, in fact, the biological father to the child. If a paternity test is not taken voluntarily, either parent can file a motion in court and request an order for a paternity test. The court will review the motion and, if the request is appropriate, issue an order for the paternity test. The court may also appoint a guardian ad litem if the child is too young to make a statement. A guardian ad litem is an adult appointed by the court to listen to the child’s wishes and represent them in court. This will help the court decide what is in the best interests of the child. The father can also consult an attorney to learn about the rights and responsibilities associated with paternity in the state of Texas. An attorney can help the father understand the legal implications of voluntarily submitting a paternity test, or objecting to a court-ordered paternity test. After the paternity test, if the results determine that the father is the biological father, then legal paternity has been established. This then allows the father to enforce his rights to visitation and parenting time with the child, as well as the potential to seek financial support from the mother.

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What if the father has doubts about his paternity?

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