Understanding Paternity Laws In Springfield, Oregon
The law provides clear guidance for children born to married couples. From child support and custody to inheritance rights and medical decisions, there are straightforward rules for parents, no matter what happens to their marriage. However, things get more complex for unmarried parents. When questions about legal parentage arise outside of marriage, they can affect every aspect of your family life. If you are an unwed parent, understanding paternity laws is essential for protecting your rights and your child’s future.
At Leahy Cox, LLP, our skilled family law attorneys bring over seven decades of dedicated service to families in Springfield and surrounding communities. We make complex Oregon paternity laws clear and simple to understand. Whether you want to establish paternity, challenge paternity findings, or learn about your rights and duties, we offer clear guidance that fits your unique needs.
Why Establish Paternity?
Establishing paternity creates a legal bond that protects both the child and parents. Your child gains legal rights to financial support, health insurance, social security benefits and inheritance from both parents. For fathers, paternity confirmation grants legal rights to custody, visitation and a voice in major decisions for the child’s upbringing. Mothers benefit from shared parental responsibilities, including financial support and child care assistance.
How Paternity Is Established In Springfield
Oregon law calculates child support based on both parents’ income, the number of children they have and the custody plan. Without confirming a father’s legal status, courts cannot require him to help with costs, often leaving mothers paying all expenses alone.
Parents can establish paternity through several methods, which we outline below:
- Voluntary acknowledgment: Both parents can sign this form at the hospital when the child is born or later at a vital records office.
- Court order: When parents disagree about paternity, either parent can file a case in family court.
- DNA testing: Courts often order these tests in disputed cases, and results serve as strong evidence for legal decisions.
Once paternity is established, the court can create appropriate child support orders based on Oregon’s guidelines, ensuring the child receives proper financial support from both parents.
Can paternity be established without going to court?
Yes, parents can establish paternity without court involvement through a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form. Both parents can sign this during birth or within five days after in front of a witness. This signed document must be filed with the Oregon state registrar to create immediate legal rights and responsibilities for both parents.
Call For Compassionate And Skilled Paternity Assistance In Springfield
Paternity questions demand clear answers and thoughtful legal strategies. Our Springfield attorneys have been handling complex parentage cases for local families since 1949. Let us help you ensure your children receive the support they deserve. Call our office at 541-357-9903 or complete an online form to schedule your first consultation.
