Sugar Land Father’s Rights Lawyer

Establishing Paternity In Texas

In Texas, there are two ways for a biological father who is not legally recognized as the father to establish paternity. To establish paternity, a father must file an acknowledgment of paternity form or undergo a DNA paternity test.

A paternity test is often court-ordered if there is a disagreement or for further clarification regarding paternity. DNA paternity tests can determine whether an alleged father is the biological father of a child with 99% accuracy. If a paternity test proves that you are the father of a child, the Attorney General will finalize your paternity order and legally recognize you as the father.

Acknowledgment Of Paternity

An acknowledgment of paternity (AOP) is a legal document that allows parents to legally establish paternity where it is not assumed, for example, when parents are not married and do not fit the criteria outlined in The Texas Family Code.

To file an AOP, both parents need to work with an AOP-certified entity that the Attorney General has trained. Your family lawyer can guide you through this process if you are looking to establish legal paternity in Sugar Land, TX.

Key Factors Considered by Texas Courts

Under Texas law, judges are required to consider numerous factors when deciding on parenting arrangements, always prioritizing the child’s best interest. Our father’s rights lawyers understand how critical these factors are and work to ensure that fathers’ voices are heard in these considerations. Texas courts examine aspects such as parental involvement, stability, and each parent’s commitment to the child’s emotional and physical well-being. Our attorneys help fathers demonstrate their dedication to these priorities.

Parental Involvement and Stability

Texas courts look closely at each parent’s history of involvement with the child, as well as their ability to provide a stable and supportive environment. For fathers, this may mean presenting evidence of their role in the child’s daily life, such as attending important events, medical appointments, and school functions. Courts also examine each parent’s stability in terms of housing, income, and overall ability to provide a safe home. Fathers who actively participate in their children’s lives and can offer stability are well-positioned to protect their rights under Texas law.

Paternity

Establishing paternity is essential for fathers who are not married to the child’s mother, as it ensures legal rights and access. For fathers looking to confirm their parental role, our attorneys can assist with obtaining a court-ordered paternity test and other legal steps needed to establish a formal parental relationship.

Advocating Against Parental Alienation and Promoting Fair Parental Access

Texas law encourages the involvement of both parents whenever possible. Our attorneys are committed to advocating against any actions that could hinder a father’s relationship with his child. If one parent is attempting to alienate the other or influence the child unfairly, our team will work to ensure that the court is aware of these dynamics.

Can My Child’s Mother Withhold Visitation Rights?

Texas law considers visitation and time with both parents to be in a child’s best interest. Visitation is agreed upon through a court order and any denial of these rights is potential contempt of court.

If you are a father and your child’s parent withholds visitation to your children, seek legal advice as quickly as possible. Your rights should not be leveraged and the child’s best interests should be prioritized above all else. An experienced father’s rights lawyer will defend your rights and ensure that you are not unfairly treated.