Lake Elsinore Paternity Lawyer

Paternity Attorney in Lake Elsinore, CA

There are many different reasons to want to establish paternity over a child in California. No matter the motivation, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities as a parent. Paternity cases can be complex and stressful. By working with the right Lake Elsinore paternity lawyer, you can build a strong case and secure a fair and stable future for you and your child.

The Najera Law Group, APC, has been helping California families through complex legal matters for over two decades. We can ensure you get the answers and support you deserve. Moreover, we go the extra mile to educate you about your options, so you never feel like you’re left in the dark. We aim to make everything as clear as possible, so you can do what’s right for your family.

Paternity Cases in California

Paternity refers to the process of determining the legal father of a child. Most of the time, this happens without any need for legal action. In some cases, however, it may be necessary to pursue legal action to enforce California’s paternity laws. Establishing paternity is important for the safety and well-being of the child as well as the security of their future.

Research shows that having a father involved in a child’s education results in better grades and a lower risk of students dropping out. Approximately 34 percent of children in California live in single-parent households. Another 47,871 children live with neither parent, instead residing in foster care.

Establishing Paternity

It’s also imperative to establish paternity to have a foundation for establishing each parent’s legal rights and responsibilities, such as child custody, child support payments, and visitation. Across the United States, about 30 percent of parents who are owed child support payments get nothing. Determining paternity can make it easier to take legal action and enforce decisions made in the best interest of your child.

In 2024, 153,506 children in California had paternity established either voluntarily or through the judicial process. Our job as Lake Elsinore paternity attorneys is to help as many local families as possible with their cases.

Consequences of Refusing a Paternity Order in California

It’s possible for a man to refuse to take a voluntary paternity test, but he can expect to face consequences if he refuses to take a court-ordered one. For starters, the court may be able to deem him the legal parent even without the test results. Other potential consequences include:

• Being held in contempt of court
• Default judgment of paternity
• Fines
• Loss of parental rights
• Potential jail time

These outcomes can also impact related family law matters such as child custody, child support, and even spousal support arrangements.

Work With a Local Lake Elsinore Paternity Lawyer

The Najera Law Group, APC, has over 20 years of experience navigating complex family law cases throughout Riverside County. We’re ready to take on whatever comes our way. Whether you want to establish paternity on your own or with your partner, working with a legal professional can help the process go smoothly.

You can have peace of mind knowing you’re working with experienced professionals with a proven track record when you choose to work with the Najera Law Group, APC. We’ve handled thousands of cases and have seen over 100 trials over the years.

Moreover, we’ve built a strong reputation over the years, earning spots on the Top 10 National Latino Trial Lawyers and Top 100 National Trial Lawyers lists. We also handle cases involving divorce, child custody, property division, and domestic violence, so you can trust us to help you through every stage of your paternity case.

FAQs

What Does a Paternity Lawyer in Lake Elsinore Charge?

Working with a paternity lawyer can vary in costs based on the details of your case. You can typically expect a Lake Elsinore paternity attorney to charge an hourly rate or flat fee, depending on the complexity of your case and the legal work required. You don’t have to be blindsided by attorney costs at the end. You can typically learn more and get an accurate quote from a lawyer before you commit to a firm.

Do I Have to Hire a Paternity Lawyer in Lake Elsinore, CA?

You’re not required to hire a paternity lawyer in Lake Elsinore, CA, to establish paternity, but it can be very helpful if you do. A Lake Elsinore paternity attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process to ensure you don’t make any mistakes. Moreover, they can handle all your paperwork, represent your interests in hearings, and address any challenges that arise along the way.

Can I Refuse to Take a Paternity Test in Lake Elsinore?

It’s possible to refuse to take a paternity test, but there’s a chance you may face some consequences. If the paternity test was ordered by the court, the court is likely to pursue legal action if the order is refused. This could include being named the legal father without the test confirming it. If the test is voluntary, the man can decline it. However, this does not prevent the other parent from seeking legal action to establish paternity.

When Are Paternity Tests Typically Required in Lake Elsinore?

There are a handful of different reasons why one or both parents may want to establish paternity. Common reasons for ordering a paternity test involve establishing a parent’s rights and responsibilities regarding inheritance and benefits claims, child support and custody cases, disputes over parental rights, and state-initiated actions. It’s also beneficial for ensuring your child’s overall well-being as they grow up.

Hire a Paternity Lawyer Who Understands California Paternity Laws

Navigating paternity cases can be complicated, especially if your partner is not being cooperative. Regardless of the situation, it’s helpful to have a knowledgeable Lake Elsinore paternity lawyer on your side who understands California’s paternity laws and is prepared to represent you throughout your case.

The Najera Law Group, APC, is prepared to get you through every stage of the process, whether that looks like negotiating with your spouse or going to court to resolve the issue. If you’re ready to discuss your case in more detail, reach out to our team of skilled attorneys today.