Top 10 Tips For Navigating Paternity Proceedings in Florida
If you are a resident of Florida and are currently involved in paternity proceedings, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. At The Dixon Firm, we understand how stressful and confusing these proceedings can be, which is why we have compiled a list of our top 10 tips to help you navigate paternity proceedings in Florida.
1. Hire an Experienced Attorney
One of the most important things you can do when involved in paternity proceedings is to hire an experienced attorney who can help guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected. The Dixon Firm has years of experience handling paternity cases in Florida and will fight tirelessly on your behalf.
2. Understand Your Rights
It is important that you understand your rights during paternity proceedings so that you can make informed decisions about your case. An experienced attorney will be able to explain your rights to you and help you understand how they apply to your specific situation.
3. Know the Consequences of Acknowledging Paternity
If you are found to be the father of a child, you will be responsible for child support payments until the child turns 18 (or 19 if they are still enrolled in high school). You will also have the right to request custody or visitation with the child.
4. Genetic Testing Is Not Always Accurate
Just because a genetic test says that you are the father of a child does not mean that it is 100% accurate. There are a number of factors that can affect the accuracy of these tests, so it is important to discuss this with your attorney before making any decisions about your case.
5. You Have the Right to a Jury Trial
In Florida, paternity cases are tried before a judge; however, if either party requests it, the case may be tried before a jury instead. This is something that you should discuss with your attorney so that they can advise you on whether or not it is in your best interest to request a jury trial.
6. The Burden of Proof Is on the Mother
In order for a mother to prove that you are the father of her child, she must present evidence that shows there is at least a 90% probability that you are the father. This evidence can include things like DNA tests, birth certificates, or witness testimony.
7. You Have the Right to Present Evidence in Your Defense
If you are accused of being the father of a child, you have the right to present evidence in your defense. This evidence can include things like DNA tests, witness testimony, or other evidence that shows there is less than a 90% probability that you are the father of the child in question.
8. The Court May Consider Your Relationship with the Child’s Mother
When Making Custody Decisions. If you share custody of another child with the mother of the child in question, the court may take this into consideration when making decisions about custody and visitation for this child as well.
9. The Court Will Consider What Is in the Best Interests of the Child
When making decisions about custody and visitation, the court will always consider what is in the best interests of the child. Factors that may be considered include each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s physical and emotional needs, each parent’s work schedule, and each parent’s relationship with the child.
10. You May Be Required to Pay Child Support Even if You Do Not Have Custody
If you are found to be the father of a child but are not awarded custody, you may still be required to pay child support until the child turns 18 (or 19 if they are still enrolled in high school). The amount of child support ordered will depend on factors such as each parent’s income, each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs, and each parent’s custody arrangement.
These are just some of The Dixon Firm's top tips for navigating paternity proceedings in Florida. If you find yourself involved in such proceedings, we strongly encourage you to seek legal counsel so that your rights can be protected. Schedule a consultation with us today.
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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The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.
