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.
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.
Meet Our Team
Built on Courtroom Experience, Driven by Purpose.
Our attorneys have collectively tried more than 250 jury trials and thousands of non-jury trials, contested hearings, and courtroom proceedings in Family Law, Probate, Civil Litigation, Tax, and Criminal Law. That experience shapes how we evaluate cases, counsel our clients, and fight for results.
Our Corona Attorneys Have Been Awarded the Highest Legal Honors
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.
If you’re navigating the legal system, we can fight to protect your interests. Call (951) 821-4647 to schedule a free consultation. Se habla español.
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.
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.
Client Reviews
Skilled, Well-Experienced Lawyer.
“I also should mention that he has a great team behind his back with a service app that you can send any questions to if you get any and they respond right away even if they are closed at the time of asking the question they always made sure to get back to”
- Abanoub H.
Highly Recommend.
“Not only did I feel prioritized I also felt heard. I struggled finding a lawyer to help with my case and while other lawyers told me to “just give up” Najera Law Group encouraged me to keep going with my case and has gotten me the results neede”
- Alyssa H.
Extremely Nice & Professional.
“He reassured me through the whole process and I honestly was at ease because he truly cared about me and keeping my kids with me. Everyone in his office is pleasant to talk too and super nice.”
- Brittany R.
Highly Recommend Him.
“He was able to explain the divorce process to the client, in an easy and professional manner. We set up the consultation for the next day. Steve is knowledgeable and confident in his practice to serve his clients.”
- Carolina S.
Very Prompt, Candid, & Confident.
“I was in need of a lawyer in a last minute situation and I was very well taken care of and reassured every step of the way. Their confidence and knowledge alone put me at ease during a highly stressful time.”
- Hog S.
Amazing & Got the Job Done.
“Steve was amazing and got the Job done, My ex husband got temp custody of my 3 yr old son Noah, without hesitation my sister found Najeralawgroup, we quickly hired steve, without a fight he got the job done.”
- Theresa G.
Awesome & Very Confident.
“Steve and his team are awesome. Very confident, I’m glad I choose Steve to win my case.”
- Jackie R.
Really Appreciated the Help.
“You guys helped me a lot and really recomend you guys thank you for everything.”
- Cesar A.
Te Dan Mucha Confianza.
“Me pareció un excelente grupo de abogados te dan mucha confianza.”
E. Steve NajeraCEO & Chief Trial Attorney
Israel ClaustroChief Legal Officer & Managing Attorney
Quinton SwansonSenior Trial Attorney
Virginia AlvarezExecutive Director of Operations
Estefania BuenrrostroSenior Litigation Paralegal / Admin Supervisor
Ruth MaganaDirector of Business Operations and Analytics
Celina MancillaSenior Litigation Paralegal / Supervisor
Erika LopezLitigation Paralegal
Johana FloresLegal Assistant
Tito NavarroLegal Assistant / Marketing
Yessenia VazquezLegal Assistant
