Nashville Paternity Lawyer 

Helping You Establish Paternity in Tennessee

Navigating the complex landscape of family law can be a challenging and emotionally charged experience. At Lackey | McDonald, PLLC, our dedicated team of legal experts is here to provide unwavering support and guidance in matters related to paternity. We understand the importance of establishing paternity and how it can impact the lives of all parties involved. Whether you're a father seeking to establish parental rights or a mother looking to secure financial support for your child, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.

Call Lackey | McDonald, PLLC today at (615) 392-4916 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our paternity attorney in Nashville!

What is Paternity?

Paternity refers to the legal recognition of a man as the father of a child. Establishing paternity is crucial for several reasons, as it impacts the rights and responsibilities of both parents and the child involved. For fathers, it means asserting their rights and being a part of their child's life, while for mothers, it often entails securing financial support for the child. Paternity also has profound consequences for the child's future, including inheritance rights, access to medical history, and more.

Establishing Paternity in Tennessee

In Tennessee, paternity can be established in various ways, depending on the circumstances and the willingness of the parties involved. Some of the common methods for establishing paternity include:

• Voluntary Acknowledgment: This is the most straightforward method of establishing paternity. Both parents can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP) form at the time of the child's birth or afterward. This form is available at hospitals, child support offices, and health departments.
• Court Order: When the parties involved cannot agree on paternity, a court order may be necessary. This typically involves genetic testing to determine paternity conclusively. If the court finds that the alleged father is the biological father, paternity will be established through a court order.
• Administrative Process: In some cases, the Department of Human Services (DHS) may become involved in paternity establishment. This usually happens when one parent is receiving government assistance. The DHS will work to establish paternity and child support obligations.
• Marriage: If a child is born to a married couple, the husband is presumed to be the legal father of the child. However, if the child's biological father is someone other than the husband, the legal presumption can be rebutted through legal action.

Our team at Lackey | McDonald, PLLC, has a deep understanding of the Tennessee paternity laws and can guide you through establishing paternity using the most suitable method for your unique situation.