Stephanie Granda: An Attorney for Paternity in Miami

At the Law Office of Stephanie Granda and Associates, PA, we focus on helping everyone engaged in the paternity process, with great sensitivity and care. It is important during the process both to protect the rights of the father, as well as to ensure that his parental responsibilities are met.

Paternity Process Objectives

In the State of Florida, the following people may bring paternity proceedings:

• A man with reason to believe he is the father of a child;
• A woman pregnant or with a child;
• Any child.

The entire point of going through paternity proceedings is to confirm the identity of the father and to make sure that his legal obligations are met. This is needed if identity and responsibility have not been established by any other means.

What To Expect During The Paternity Process

Where the paternity proceedings will be held depends upon the county in which the child resides. Prior to establishing a paternity petition, it is important to include sufficient facts. The receiving party is then served with proper notice, followed by a mandatory discovery phase, prior to commencing mediation.

If mediation does not result in a settlement, then a trial date will be scheduled. Other discovery prior to appearing before the Court will be possible if both parties agree.

Paternity is ultimately proven through DNA testing. Legal paternity rights will be established, once paternity has been proven, by a court order. Typically this follows DNA testing, although in some cases the parties may enter into a paternity agreement and rights will be established without a DNA test.

Parent Rights and Responsibilities

Once paternity has been established, there are numerous rights and responsibilities that may be addressed. These include time sharing, shared parental responsibility, and payment for certain expenses including health insurance, tutoring and extracurricular activities.

Determination of Paternity Proceedings; Jurisdiction.

Any woman who is pregnant or has a child, any man who has reason to believe that he is the father of a child, or any child may bring proceedings in the circuit court, in chancery, to determine the paternity of the child when paternity has not been established by law or otherwise.
For more details, read Title XLXII, Ch. 742, §742.011

Modification or Enforcement of Existing Paternity Orders

For any non-compliance of court orders and/or agreements, our office can assist you in enforcement of that order by seeking court intervention.  You may also be entitled to modify an existing order and/or agreement if substantial changes have occurred.  Contact our office for a free consultation on how we can legally proceed.

Miami Paternity Attorney

If you think you have a paternity case, it is important to work with an experienced Miami Paternity Attorney. A paternity case may be used to protect the rights of the father, mother or child. Should you find yourself involved in a paternity case, please contact our caring, experienced group of partners today so we can strategize how to best help you. Contact us today.