10 Mistakes to Avoid in Your Florida Paternity Case
The Dixon Law Firm specializes in family law, including paternity cases. We understand the complexities and nuances of paternity law, and we can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected. There are several common mistakes that people make in a paternity case—here, we’ll discuss the top ten.
1) Failing to File a Petition for Paternity
In order to establish a parental relationship between a father and child, it is necessary to file a petition for paternity with the court. This document establishes parental rights and duties, such as child support and custody arrangements. If you fail to file a petition for paternity, these issues will not be addressed in court or treated as legally binding.
2) Not Knowing Your Rights
It is important to be aware of your rights during a paternity case so that you can protect yourself from potential problems down the line. Make sure you understand what rights you may have when it comes to custody or visitation arrangements, who is responsible for providing financial support for your children, and other matters relevant to your case.
3) Not Cooperating with DNA Testing
DNA testing is an essential part of establishing paternity; without it, there will not be any proof that you are actually the father of the child in question. However, many people fail to cooperate with this process or try to avoid taking the test altogether. It is important that if you have been asked to take a DNA test as part of a paternity case that you comply with this request so that your parental status can be established accurately and quickly.
4) Violating Court Orders
Once an order has been issued by the court in regard to your paternity case, it is essential that you follow its instructions exactly as stated, or risk being found in contempt of court. This could put your entire case at risk since it could lead to fines or even jail time depending on how serious the violation was.
5) Representing Yourself Without Legal Counsel
Many people assume they can handle their own legal issues without any outside help—but this mistake could cost them dearly if they don’t understand all the intricacies involved in their case. Having an experienced attorney like Alicia Dixon, Founding Attorney at The Dixon Law Firm, on the other hand, can greatly improve your chances of success by ensuring that all documents are properly filed and deadlines met. She also knows best how to represent your interests within the confines of the law.
6) Not Paying Child Support On Time
Child support payments must always be made on time according to whatever arrangement has been established by court order. Failure to do so could result in serious penalties such as wage garnishment, or even jail time depending on how delinquent payments become before they are resolved.
7) Ignoring Custody Schedules
If there is an existing child custody schedule set forth by court order (or even an informal agreement), both parties must follow it carefully or else face consequences from the court such as fines, or loss of custodial rights entirely if one parent repeatedly fails to adhere to visitation guidelines set forth by either themselves or by another person appointed by the court.
8) Moving Out Of State Before Your Case Is Resolved
In some instances, one party may move out of state before their case has been resolved—this can complicate matters significantly since local laws may no longer apply if they move away from where they initially filed their petition for paternity (or where they were served with papers regarding said petition). Additionally, this could also make it difficult for them to attend any required hearings relating to their case since they would have relocated themselves outside of the jurisdiction where those hearings were taking place originally.
9) Not Filing Motions To Modify Or Terminate Court Orders When Necessary
Even after all decisions have been finalized, in regard to a person's specific paternity case (i.e., custody arrangements/visitation schedules, etc.), certain events might occur which require further modifications such as changes due to job transfers, etc. In these instances, it's important for individuals involved with said cases, to promptly file motions asking the court to modify/terminate existing orders accordingly, so that everyone remains protected under the current legal statutes/codes applicable at given times!
10) Not Seeking Professional Help When Needed
Lastly, but most importantly, it's imperative for those involved in any kind of dispute related to Paternity, to seek professional assistance from a qualified attorney who specializes in Paternity, instead of trying to go through the process alone without guidance counsel. Doing so will ensure that your individual rights remain protected throughout the entirety of the proceedings, while also giving you peace of mind, knowing that there is someone experienced helping you every step of the way.
- Failing to File a Petition for Paternity
- Not Knowing Your Rights
- Not Cooperating with DNA Testing
- Violating Court Orders
- Representing Yourself Without Legal Counsel
- Not Paying Child Support On Time
- Ignoring Custody Schedules
- Moving Out Of State Before Your Case Is Resolved
- Not Filing Motions To Modify Or Terminate Court Orders When Necessary
- Not Seeking Professional Help When Needed
Navigating through Florida’s complex laws surrounding Paternity Cases can be difficult without professional help, but making mistakes along the way will only complicate matters even further.
At Dixon Law Firm, we understand the importance of properly protecting our clients’ rights during these situations.
I was recommended to use the Dixon Law Firm from another reputable law professional. Alicia was VERY communicative, informative, and patient during the entire divorce process. She is fair, comforting, and genuinely cares. I noticed that from our initial consultation.
I would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone looking to have a smooth divorce process. Thanks to her, I have peace, happiness, and the closure I need to move forward in my life.
A huge thanks to Alicia Dixon and her team for helping change my life for the better!
Aaron Tommie
I am extremely grateful for the exceptional legal support provided by Alicia Dixon during my divorce. Alicia's commitment goes beyond the conventional workday, demonstrating a dedication to prioritizing her clients' needs throughout family disputes. Her constant availability and timely counsel not only eased the complexities of the legal process but also extended valuable guidance for both me and my children. Alicia's proactive approach in preventing legal complications showcases her understanding of the dynamic nature of family situations. Thanks to her efforts, I achieved the best possible outcomes. I highly recommend Alicia Dixon for anyone seeking a compassionate and proficient family law attorney.
William Leonard
I wish I could give 10 stars to Alicia and her team for representing me. I really appreciate their hard work and A1 services on my behalf. I would definitely recommend Alicia’s services if you are in need of a well rounded, professional, knowledgeable and hard working attorney. Thank again you guys for everything!
A Freeman
I highly recommend The Dixon Law Firm. Alicia Dixon represented me in my divorce case. My initial consultation was over the phone and within a few moments I knew she was the right attorney to represent me. Unfortunately my case ended up going to trial due to my husband's actions however Mrs. Dixon was amazing! I know as a result of her diligence the outcome of my divorce will be a good one. Thank you Mrs Dixon for everything!
Lori
Alicia Dixon was everything I could ask for and more. She was very upfront, helpful, and prompt throughout my divorce. She kept me informed throughout the entire process. She was also very compassionate and empathetic, which is necessary when navigating such a difficult process. She answered each one of my questions and always got back to me in a timely manner. I would highly recommend her for any familial matters.
Aaron Tommie
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