When Can Texas Courts Order a Paternity Test?

 Posted on July 30, 2024 in Family Law

Paternity can be a contested topic. Many parents may find themselves needing to establish paternity with a DNA test to ensure that each parent understands their legal rights and obligations to a shared child. In some cases of paternity disputes, the court may order that the alleged father of the child submit a paternity test. A skilled Texas paternity lawyer can help you navigate the process of establishing paternity whether you are a mother or a father struggling with this issue.

Why Is It Important to Establish Paternity?

Paternity helps a father obtain legal rights to his child, allowing him visitation and child custody rights in the case of a divorce. Paternity will also provide the father with the responsibility to provide financial support to his child. In cases where paternity is questioned or challenged, establishing paternity can help put an end to custody and child support disputes.

For a mother, establishing paternity is essential if she wants to obtain child support and encourage a relationship between a child and the father. Of course, children also benefit from knowing their father and having a good relationship with him.

When Might a Paternity Test Be Ordered?

In Texas, a child’s mother, the child, a legal representative of the child, a government agency, or a man who claims or is believed to be the father of a child may bring a paternity action into court.

The court may order an involuntary paternity test as a result of a disagreement between the mother and the alleged father regarding paternity, such as when a father is disputing child custody or support arrangements by arguing he is not the biological father of the child.

If a father refuses to submit DNA for paternity testing, the court can order him to comply.

Additionally, if there is a suspicion of mistaken paternity, or if a couple is unmarried and there are questions about the paternity of a shared child, the court may order a paternity test.

Contact a Marble Falls, TX Paternity Lawyer

The process of requesting paternity tests can be stressful, and you may find yourself struggling with difficulties in getting the alleged father of your child to submit a paternity test. A court may be able to help you pursue a paternity test, but you will need the guidance of an experienced Fredericksburg, TX paternity attorney to advocate for your rights.

At the Law Office of Russ Alan Baker, PLLC, we will fight for your parental rights as you establish paternity and navigate the legal challenges of a court-ordered paternity test. Call 325-216-2006 for a free consultation.