Paternity Attorney in Knoxville, TN
Establishing legal paternity is an essential step in securing parental rights and responsibilities under Tennessee law. At Easter & DeVore, we help both mothers and fathers in the Knoxville, TN area with all aspects of paternity cases, from voluntary acknowledgments to court-ordered DNA testing and legal proceedings. Whether you are a father seeking custody or visitation, or a mother pursuing child support, our experienced family law attorney is here to guide you through the process.
Why Paternity Matters
Paternity establishes the legal relationship between a father and child. For married parents, paternity is automatically presumed. However, for unmarried parents, paternity must be legally established before the court can issue orders related to custody, visitation, or child support. Until paternity is confirmed, a father does not have the legal standing to request parenting time or decision-making authority.
Establishing paternity benefits both the child and the parents. It provides the child with access to:
- Financial support from both parents
- Health and life insurance coverage
- Inheritance rights
- Social Security and veterans’ benefits
- A complete medical history from both sides of the family
How to Establish Paternity in Tennessee
There are two primary ways to establish paternity in Tennessee:
- Voluntary Acknowledgment: Both parents may sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form, typically at the hospital when the child is born. This legally recognizes the father and is filed with the Tennessee Office of Vital Records.
- Court-Ordered Paternity Action: If there is a dispute or uncertainty about paternity, either parent may file a petition in court. The court may order DNA testing to determine biological fatherhood. Once paternity is established, the court can proceed with orders related to custody, visitation, and child support.
At Easter & DeVore, we represent clients in both voluntary and contested paternity matters. We ensure your rights are protected and that all legal requirements are fulfilled accurately and efficiently.
Fathers’ Rights and Custody
Once paternity is established, fathers gain the right to seek custody and visitation just like any other legal parent. Tennessee courts consider the best interests of the child when making these determinations, taking into account the ability of each parent to provide a stable and nurturing environment.
We help fathers who want to be actively involved in their child’s life by petitioning the court for shared or sole custody, negotiating parenting plans, and advocating for fair visitation arrangements.
Child Support and Financial Obligations
Legal paternity also establishes the obligation to provide financial support for the child. The amount of support is calculated based on the Tennessee Child Support Guidelines, which consider the income of both parents, parenting time, and the child’s needs. We assist parents in determining appropriate support amounts, filing for support orders, and modifying or enforcing existing orders.
Contact Easter & DeVore
If you need assistance with a paternity matter in Knoxville, TN, turn to the experienced legal team at Easter & DeVore. We are committed to helping you establish parental rights, secure child support, and build a strong foundation for your family’s future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
