In some cases, the paternity of a child comes into question. Since parents are financially responsible for the welfare of their child, it is important to verify the paternity if that is an issue. Paternity affects all aspects of a person’s life including financial obligations and visitation rights. Due to the seriousness and long-term consequences of these legal issues, it is imperative to have a qualified Nebraska paternity lawyer working on your behalf.
Nebraska Paternity Cases
Presumption of Paternity
If a couple was married during the child’s birth, there is the presumption that they are the biological or legal parents. If the parents were not married, there is a greater chance that the paternity of the child will be questioned. Some fathers request that their names be listed on the child’s birth certificate or will have a DNA test done to confirm they are the biological father. It is important to note, however, that even if the paternity of the child is not at issue, a paternity case still needs to be opened in order to establish the legal rights of the parties, like child support and child custody.
How To Establish Paternity in Nebraska
Paternity is often established through a voluntary process between the parties. Once paternity is established, Nebraska courts have the expectation that attorneys and their clients will work together to create a parenting plan that is in the best interests of the children involved in the case. When that fails, it is often necessary to attend court-ordered mediation, and if that fails the court may order a third party to intervene, such as a child custody evaluator, to make recommendations to the court. However the process unfolds, our attorneys are able to guide you through the process to create a custody situation that best fits your family and is in the best interests of your children.
Why Establish Paternity?
There are many reasons to establish paternity, the most important being that it allows all parties, including the child to solidify the important rights of child support and child custody. In a healthy relationship, the support, both financial and emotional, of both parents is crucial to the child’s well-being.
Time Limits To Establishing Paternity
The State of Nebraska currently requires a mother or father to file a petition for paternity within four years of the child’s birth. This requirement has been rigorously applied by the courts, even in cases where the father was initially told by the mother that he’s not the child’s father.
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Legal Assistance From a Nebraska Paternity Attorney
If you want to legally determine or establish paternity and assert your rights, call us at 402-509-8378 to schedule an initial consultation. Even if child support and custody issues can be resolved amicably, it is beneficial to have an experienced family law attorney on your side to help you. If there are difficulties handling child support and custody, we will make sure that your paternity rights are enforced and protected.
Need Help with a Paternity Case?
Call Nebraska Legal Group at 402.509.8378 or get started with a free case evaluation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do paternity cases take?
Just like all cases, how long a paternity case depends on the facts of the specific case. Often these cases can take between three and nine months.
How much does a paternity lawsuit cost?
We can keep costs low in a paternity case if paternity is established quickly and we can reach a settlement regarding parenting time, decision-making, and child support. If a trial is involved, the case is simply more expensive. The attorney you meet with will be able to better determine what your case may cost.
Contact Us
Email:
info@nebraskalegalgroup.com
Omaha Office
Phone:
402.509.7033
Address:
Two Old Mill, 10855 West Dodge Rd
Suite 240
Omaha, NE 68154
Lincoln Office
Phone:
531.248.5050
Address:
6940 O Street
Suite 314
Lincoln, NE 68510