"Frank Rorie is one of the most well-respected criminal defense lawyers in the Los Angeles area because he is diligent, always well-prepared and dedicated to helping his clients." - William Ayers, Esq.
"The clients who I've referred to Frank have all been satisfied with their results."- Michael Botello, Esq.
"I've known Frank to be a very hardworking and conscientious family law attorney."- Alexander Macksoud, Esq.
If you or a loved one is in need of an attorney, contact the Law Offices of Frank D. Rorie for a free consultation and ask to speak with an attorney immediately.
The Law Offices of Frank D. Rorie
The Iowa Courthouse
18411 Crenshaw Blvd.
Suite 360
Torrance, California 90504
Phone (310) 316-6893
Family Law :: Parentage
The Court needs to determine “legal” parentage of a child before child support, custody, and visitation orders can be ordered. First, it is important to determine the “legal” status of the parents at the time of the child’s birth. If the parents were married, California law usually considers the husband to be the father. If the parents are not married when a child is born, they can sign a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity shortly after birth. If they did not sign this form, then the parents can go to Court to establish parentage via genetic testing.
If a person is established to be the legal parent of a child, that parent has a legal obligation to support his or her child. Of course, that parent also maintains an interest in custody and visitation rights of the child.
Voluntary Declaration of Paternity
Unmarried parents do not have to sign a Declaration of Paternity. Signing a Declaration of Paternity is voluntary. Forms can be obtained either at the hospital or at: (1) their local child support agency, (2) the Registrar of births, or (3) a family law facilitator’s office.
Establishing Paternity
There are three routes to establishing parentage: (1) file a case yourself; (2) contact a Child Support Agency; or (3) hire an attorney. Your issues may be complex or simple. In any case, it may be to your advantage to speak with an attorney who can inform you of the complexity of your case and determine which avenue may be best for your own specific needs.
There are several forms which need to be filled out in order to begin the process of establishing parentage:
In addition, a parent can Set Aside a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity or Answer an Action to Set Aside a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity. These can be complicated actions. Contacting an attorney can help you through the process.
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