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Mothers and fathers who have children outside of marriage often have questions about their rights under Arizona’s paternity law. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Paul Lenkowsky in Bullhead City, AZ, are accustomed to answering questions and providing advice on this important topic. The questions below are among the most frequent these family law attorneys hear regarding paternity and its effect on parenting time and child support.

4 FAQs About Paternity Law in Arizona

Why Should I Establish Paternity?

Parents and their children benefit from established paternity in several ways. This designation creates a legal bond, which grants the father parental rights and responsibilities. These include the right to inherit from the child, make decisions for and support the child, and have parenting time.

How Does a Child Benefit From Paternity?

paternity-law-Bullhead-City-AZFor the child, legal and financial benefits include the right to inherit and receive child support, medical insurance coverage, and government benefits based on the father’s record. Establishing paternity may be significant for a child’s medical history and health, and it strengthens the social and emotional connection between a parent and child. Knowing who their father is can build a child’s self-esteem and sense of identity.

If We Need Genetic Testing, Who Has to Pay for It?

In Arizona, the state pays in advance for the testing, and the alleged father agrees in writing to repay the state if the test identifies him as the child’s biological father. The repayment can be made monthly until it is paid in full, or all at once.

Is There an Easy Way to Establish Paternity?

Unmarried parents may acknowledge paternity voluntarily any time from the child’s birth until their 18th birthday. Form CS-127, Acknowledgment of Paternity, is available at hospitals and child support offices. Parents in Maricopa County can call (602) 771-8181; Arizona residents outside of the county can call (800) 485-6908 to obtain the form.

It’s wise to seek counsel from an attorney experienced in paternity law, especially when an alleged father denies paternity or a parent is not sure who fathered the child. At the Law Offices of Paul Lenkowsky in Bullhead City, individuals receive sound advice and strong representation in paternity law issues. Call (928) 758-4815 today to schedule your consultation, and learn more about the firm’s other practice areas by visiting them online.

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