Law Office of Lauren Cain Law Office of Lauren Cain
A Boutique Law Firm in Texas

Fathers' Rights & Paternity

Texas Fathers' Rights Advocate in Collin County

Also Serving Clients in Denton County and Throughout DFW

Fathers in Texas have the right to be part of their children’s lives and have the same rights to child custody and visitation that mothers do. Similarly, mothers have the same obligations under Texas law as fathers do to contribute to their children’s material needs. The old days of automatically awarding the mother custody, with the father paying child support and being a remote figure in the child’s life, are long gone.

You Have Rights As A Father & We Will Help You Enforce Them

At the Law Office of Lauren Cain, in Frisco, Texas, we represent fathers who seek greater involvement in their children’s lives. We help them gain fairer visitation rights and, in some instances, custody. We undertake modifications of orders if the divorce has been finalized, or fight for them in custody and visitation disputes during the divorce. 

Our attorney also acts for fathers who believe that they are not the father of a child but are still being forced to pay child support. We guide them through the process of identifying the true father. Contact us today!

Understanding the Legal Process of Establishing Paternity in Texas

Navigating the legal landscape of paternity can be complex, but our experienced team at the Law Office of Lauren Cain is here to guide you every step of the way. Establishing paternity is not just about legal rights; it also plays a crucial role in securing emotional and financial support for both fathers and their children. Understanding the process can empower you to make informed decisions.

Here’s what you can expect when establishing paternity:

  • Initial Consultation: We offer a free consultation to discuss your situation, explain your rights, and outline the steps involved in establishing paternity.
  • DNA Testing: If necessary, we can facilitate DNA testing to confirm biological relationships, ensuring that the process is both accurate and respectful.
  • Legal Documentation: Our attorneys will help you navigate the paperwork required to establish paternity, ensuring all legal documents are correctly filed.
  • Child Support and Custody Matters: Once paternity is established, we can assist you in pursuing child support or custody arrangements that are fair and in the best interest of your child.
  • Ongoing Support: Our commitment doesn’t end once paternity is established. We are here to provide ongoing legal support as your family dynamics evolve.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the legal rights of fathers in Texas regarding child custody?

In Texas, fathers have the same rights as mothers when it comes to child custody, which includes the right to seek joint or sole custody. The courts prioritize the best interests of the child, considering factors like the child's emotional and physical needs, the parents' abilities to provide for those needs, and the child's relationship with each parent.

Can fathers request modifications to existing custody agreements?

Yes, fathers can request modifications to custody agreements if there is a significant change in circumstances. This could include changes in living situations, employment, or the child's needs. The request must be filed in court, and the father will need to demonstrate that the modification serves the best interests of the child.

How does child support work for fathers in Texas?

In Texas, child support is calculated based on a percentage of the non-custodial parent's income, with specific guidelines provided by the state. Fathers, like mothers, are obligated to contribute to their children's financial needs, and the amount can be modified if there are substantial changes in income or circumstances.

What steps can a father take if he believes he is not the biological father of a child?

If a father believes he is not the biological father of a child, he can request a paternity test to confirm or deny his legal responsibilities. If the test shows he is not the father, he may petition the court to terminate his child support obligations.

What factors do Texas courts consider when determining custody arrangements?

Texas courts consider various factors when determining custody arrangements, including the emotional and physical needs of the child, the relationship each parent has with the child, the stability of each parent's home environment, and any history of family violence or substance abuse.

Establishing paternity is a vital step in protecting your rights as a father and ensuring a stable future for your child. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in this important process.

  • “Divorce is a difficult thing to go through so I was glad to have Lauren on my side.” - Todd G.
  • “I was getting a divorce and she was so kind and helpful. She guided me every step of the way.” - Bethany P.
  • “Mrs. Cain was very attentive and dedicated to my case... she saved my relationship with my children!” - T. A.
  • “I hired Lauren to do my divorce a few years ago & she got me exactly what I wanted!” - Patrick M.

    The Best Interests of the Child Govern Custody Agreements

    The law is based on the assumption that it is in the best interest of a child to have the care and support of both parents. If you believe that your custody, visitation and child support agreements do not meet this standard, it is important to consult an attorney who will review your situation and help you enforce your rights as a father.

    The Importance of Determining Paternity

    We also act for mothers who need to prove the paternity of a child so they can request child support. Parents who were never married are particularly vulnerable when paternity remains undetermined; a mother could move away, leaving the father with no visitation. A father could vanish, leaving the mother with no child support and no legal right to collect it. Our law firm routinely handles situations such as these.

    Obtaining a paternity test is key to resolving such matters. Our attorney can arrange for you to take a paternity test, which is a simple lab procedure requiring a cheek swab. If the test determines that you are the father, our lawyer will fight to get you visitation or custody. If you are not the biological father, we will help you turn back a request for child support.

    Ask a Plano Paternity Lawyer

    To schedule an appointment with our lawyer, call our Collin County law firm at (214) 234-2622 or complete the intake form. We will get back to you right away.

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