The connection between a parent and their child is one of the strongest bonds that can ever be created. While the relationships between parents and their kids can wax and wane over time, the acknowledgement of their legal affiliation may forever keep them connected, despite the differences that may come between them. In Texas, when questions exist regarding the parentage of a child, a paternity lawsuit may be filed.
A paternity lawsuit attempts to establish or refute a biological relationship between a person and their alleged child. While it is often the case that paternity lawsuits concern children and their presumptive fathers, they can also control questions regarding children’s biological mothers. During a paternity lawsuit, a presumptive parent and child may be required to submit to blood or genetic testing to determine if they are biologically related. If they are found to be related, certain rights and privileges may attach to their relationship.
There are many reasons that paternity lawsuits are important. First, without legal rights over a child, a parent may not be able to secure custody or visitation time with them. Additionally, a child who is not recognized as their parent’s offspring may not be considered their heir and may not benefit from their estate when their parent passes away.
Questions of parentage can be emotional and complicated and many families do not know where to turn when they are faced with challenges related to this significant legal topic. Legal professionals, such as those who work in the family law field, can provide support and guidance to individuals who wish to find answers and establish stability in their relationships with their biological children.
