Paternity

Get the Legal Guidance You Need From a Trusted Paternity Attorney in Wisconsin

Establishing Legal Paternity & Protecting Fathers’ Rights

Paternity is a crucial legal determination that affects parental rights, child custody, and child support in Wisconsin. Whether you are seeking to establish paternity, protect your rights as a father, or contest a paternity claim, navigating the legal process can be complex.

At Gerard Law Firm, we provide dedicated legal representation for fathers and mothers involved in paternity disputes. Our firm ensures that your rights are protected while working toward a resolution that serves the best interests of the child.

Call us today for a consultation and take the first step in securing your parental rights.

Why Choose Gerard Law?

Paternity cases can have long-term legal and financial implications. Whether you are a father seeking parental rights or a mother pursuing child support, having experienced legal counsel is essential.

At Gerard Law Firm, we help clients:

  • Establish paternity through voluntary acknowledgment or court proceedings.

  • Protect fathers’ rights to custody and visitation.

  • Challenge incorrect paternity claims with DNA evidence.

  • Ensure fair child support obligations.

Our firm provides personalized legal strategies to help clients navigate paternity cases with confidence and clarity.

  • At Gerard Law Firm, we have a history of success in representing clients across various legal matters. Our results speak for themselves, showcasing our ability to secure favorable outcomes in even the most challenging cases.

  • We understand that every legal case is unique. That's why we offer personalized attention to each client, ensuring that your specific needs and concerns are addressed. Attorney Benjamin Gerard takes the time to get to know you and your case, providing tailored legal strategies that work for you.

  • Gerard Law Firm is deeply rooted in southeastern Wisconsin. Our familiarity with the local courts, judges, and legal procedures in Delavan, Lake Geneva, Janesville, and surrounding areas gives us a distinct advantage. This local expertise allows us to navigate the legal landscape efficiently and effectively, providing you with the best possible representation.

  • We are dedicated to providing high-quality legal services that exceed our clients' expectations. From our initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we strive for excellence in everything we do. Our commitment to excellence ensures that you receive the best legal representation available.

  • At Gerard Law Firm, our clients are our top priority. We believe in open communication, transparency, and building strong attorney-client relationships. Our client-focused approach means that you can trust us to be responsive, accessible, and dedicated to achieving the best outcome for your case.

Paternity Legal Defense Services We Offer

Paternity issues in Wisconsin involve various legal concerns, from determining parental rights to enforcing child support obligations. Our firm handles all aspects of paternity cases, ensuring that both parents and children receive fair legal treatment.

Establishing Legal Paternity

In Wisconsin, paternity can be established voluntarily through an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) or through court-ordered DNA testing. We guide clients through both processes, ensuring that their parental rights are legally recognized.

Fathers’ Rights & Custody

Once paternity is established, fathers have the right to seek custody and visitation arrangements. We help fathers assert their parental rights and advocate for fair parenting plans that benefit both the father and the child.

Contesting Paternity Claims

If you are being named as a child’s father but believe the claim is incorrect, you have the right to contest paternity. We assist clients in disputing paternity claims using genetic testing and legal motions.

Child Support & Financial Obligations

Paternity cases often involve child support determinations. We help ensure that child support payments are fair, accurately calculated, and in line with Wisconsin’s legal guidelines.

Modifying Paternity-Related Court Orders

If circumstances change after a paternity ruling, such as a change in income or relocation, modifications may be necessary. Our firm assists clients in requesting modifications to custody or child support agreements.

Protecting the Best Interests of the Child

Paternity determinations directly impact a child’s well-being, from financial support to inheritance rights. We work to ensure that legal outcomes prioritize the child’s best interests while protecting the rights of both parents.

The Paternity Process in Wisconsin

The legal process for establishing or contesting paternity follows specific steps, each of which can significantly impact parental rights and responsibilities. Understanding this process can help parents make informed decisions about their legal options. At Gerard Law Firm, we guide clients through every stage of the paternity process, from initial filings to final court determinations.

Step 1: Filing a Paternity Action

A paternity action may be initiated by the mother, the alleged father, or a state agency seeking child support. If paternity is not voluntarily acknowledged, the court will order genetic testing.

Step 2: DNA Testing & Evidence Review

If there is a dispute regarding paternity, the court may require DNA testing to confirm biological parentage. The test results play a crucial role in determining legal fatherhood.

Step 3: Court Hearing & Determination

Once evidence is presented, a judge will determine paternity. If paternity is established, the court may also issue orders regarding custody, visitation, and child support obligations.

Step 4: Finalizing Custody & Child Support Agreements

After paternity is determined, both parents may negotiate or litigate custody and child support arrangements. Our firm helps ensure that court orders are fair and legally enforceable.

Common Questions About Paternity in Wisconsin

How is paternity established in Wisconsin?

Paternity can be established voluntarily through an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) form or through court-ordered DNA testing if the father’s identity is in dispute.

What rights does a father have once paternity is established?

Once paternity is confirmed, a father has the legal right to seek custody, visitation, and decision-making authority regarding the child’s upbringing.

Can I challenge a paternity claim?

Yes. If you have been named as the father but believe the claim is inaccurate, you can request DNA testing and contest the paternity case in court.

Does establishing paternity automatically grant custody rights?

No. Establishing paternity legally recognizes a father’s parental status but does not automatically grant custody or visitation. Separate court proceedings may be needed to determine custody arrangements.

Can child support be ordered if paternity is not established?

No. A court must establish paternity before issuing child support orders. If paternity is confirmed, the court will calculate support obligations based on income and other factors.

Can I modify a paternity ruling or child support order?

Yes. If there is a significant change in circumstances—such as a job loss, relocation, or change in the child’s needs—you may petition the court for a modification.

Need Legal Help With a Paternity Case?

Establishing or disputing paternity can have lasting legal and financial consequences. At Gerard Law Firm, we provide strong legal advocacy for fathers and mothers navigating paternity cases.