When a father wants to be a part of his child’s life it is a good thing. This means that the child will grow up with both a mother and father in his or her life and may not suffer the negative effects of an absent father. While a man may want to be present in the life of his child, there have been some situations where men have been asked to prove that they are in fact the father of the children; it is common for them to be asked to take a paternity test. This is done before they could be awarded any type of custody or exercise their rights as a father.
Although some fathers may be required to take a paternity test to prove they are the father of their children, it is not always necessary. There are certain situations where paternity is assumed. These situations include the following:
- Couple is married prior to birth of child.
- The couple marries and a legitimation form is signed following the birth of the child.
- Couple signs an acknowledgment of paternity.
- Man supports and cares for child as if it is his own.
- Man agrees to be named on child’s birth certificate.
With paternity only being assumed under these circumstances, a father may not know for sure if a child is his. This lack of assurance may cause him to question his parentage and he may want a paternity test even though it has not been asked of him.
If you have questions about fathers’ rights, a Houston paternity lawyer may be able to assist you. If there is any doubt that a child is yours, you deserve to know the truth and an attorney may be able to help you uncover it.
