Paternity Lawyers Serving Fishers, IN
Helping Clients Establish Their Rights as a Father in Indiana
According to Indiana law, “child born out of wedlock” is a child born to parents who were not married at the time of the child’s birth. A mother’s legal rights over the child are automatically vested with her upon the birth of the child. However, the same is not the case for the father. A father can obtain legal rights over the child either through a signed paternity affidavit or from a court order.
How Affidavits & Court Orders Work in Paternity Cases
If a father correctly and promptly signs a paternity affidavit, the legal rights of the child are vested under him as the legal father. If the father is present at the birth of the child, typically, the hospital will offer the paternity affidavit to the father and allow him the opportunity to sign it. The signing of this affidavit gives rise to the legal and financial responsibilities of the father. However, the specifics of the rights and responsibilities often need to be addressed by filing a paternity case with the court.
If a man believes himself to be the father of a child but was not present at the birth of the child, he can still obtain legal rights and responsibilities of the child as his/her legal father. The to-be father must get a court order proclaiming him as the rightful legal father of said child. A father typically has two (2) years to file a petition for paternity through the court system. If a man does not file for this petition within two (2) years of the child’s birth, it is still possible for the father to gain legal paternity rights; however, it may be slightly more difficult. DNA tests are a possible exception to the two (2) year custom. An individual should seek the advice of an attorney to determine if this is a necessary step.
Contact Our Fishers Paternity Lawyers for Support
Once paternity has been established, the matters of custody, parenting time and child support will need to be addressed. This can be a complex situation for a party to handle on their own. Fortunately, our Fishers family law attorneys are available to discuss your situation, rights and obligations.
To schedule a consultation with a member of our team, contact us online or by calling (317) 434-1490.
Work With People Who Care
-
A Personalized, Team-Oriented Approach
-
200+ Years' Combined Experience
-
We Are Active Members of Our Community
-
We Treat Every Case Individually
-
Small Firm Attention. Big Firm Results.
-
Initial Consultations Are Always FREE!
Our Clients Are Our Biggest Advocates
-
Mario was incredible to work with and very easy to work and was very professional!- Andrew G.
-
They are very educated on what they do and go above and beyond for their clients. If you ever need, they are the team to call!- Chelsea B.
-
Mario is absolutely amazing. He is responsive and always at the ready for help. I have relied on him for over two years and his advice is spot on.- Former Client
-
I worked with Danielle Merlo on a Family Law matter in 2024. It was a complex case which Danielle handed incredibly well. I felt supported and well advised as we navigated a several month case.- Danielle M.
-
Tom is an excellent education attorney! He guided our family through a difficult sexual harassment case involving our child and the local public school. Tom's expertise and persistence led to a positive outcome that has truly made a difference in our child- Laura
-
The situation was difficult, to say the least, and Tom fought ethically and capably to protect our dignity and rights for my grandson's educational needs.- Kathy
-
Mario is the kind of lawyer who actually listens and takes your situation seriously. He’s professional, sharp, and genuinely cares about the people he represents.- Amber D.
-
I reached out to Tom Blessing for help with a disability discrimination case involving my son. I felt vulnerable and intimidated taking a stand against an entire school district, but having Tom by my side every step of the way was reassuring and empowering- Suzi S.
-
After 3 attorneys and tens of thousands of dollars spent. Amy and Latoya were successful in rescuing my grandson from and unstable environment on their first attempt.- Brenda H.
-
He was thorough, prepared, and fought hard to make sure my voice was heard. If you’re looking for a lawyer who is knowledgeable, dependable, and truly in your corner, I highly recommend Mario.- Former Client