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Reasons a parent may challenge paternity

On Behalf of | Sep 4, 2015 | Paternity

Being a parent is a huge responsibility, and for some, it is a responsibility they are reluctant to take on. Whether it be because they are not ready be a father or because they have doubts that the child is theirs, paternity may need to be proven before a man will assume the role of a father and start to care for his child. When a child is born to parents who are married, it is assumed that the male is the father, but no matter the relationship of the parents, there are circumstances that may cause the mother or father of the child to challenge paternity.

The following are various reasons a parent may challenge paternity:

  • Mother may be guilty of infidelity.
  • Fraudulent paternity test results.
  • Tainted paternity test results.
  • Father or mother has issues with sterility or infertility.

If one parent challenges paternity, it is likely that the father will be tested again. What this will do is finally prove or disprove if the child is, in fact, the son or daughter of the father. Following the second test, parents may then go on to decide who will get custody of the child, or depending on the state of their relationship, they may continue to live in the same household and raise the child together.

It is always important for a child to have both parents present in his or her life, so if proving paternity will allow that to happen, then the father should be willing to be tested. If you are interested in proving paternity, an attorney can inform you of your options. They are familiar with the process of proving paternity and may be able to help both mothers and fathers with proving paternity and any steps that may follow.

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