Experienced Illinois Paternity Lawyers
Paternity often serves as the linchpin to resolve family law issues such as child custody, parenting time, and child support. Without paternity – assumed according to Illinois statutes or determined via paternity test – these issues cannot be satisfactorily resolved.
For example, are you an unwed mother who needs child support in order to make ends meet and provide for your child? Are you an unmarried biological father who needs to establish parental rights in order to grow closer to your child?
These are the types of legal, financial, and emotional problems that paternity can help solve. In Lake county and surrounding Illinois communities, you can rely on Gravel & Wechter P.C. in Gurnee for skilled representation in your paternity and other family law matters. At our firm, there are no problems, only solutions.
Helping Parents Find Answers
Gravel & Wechter are experienced family law attorneys who are dedicated to helping mothers, fathers, and children achieve a brighter future. Whether that future involves proving parentage, paying child support in return for a prominent role in your child’s life, or contesting the relocation of a child out of state, you can turn to our firm for the help you need.
We strive to establish an atmosphere of comfort, confidence and trust from the very start. We will listen carefully as you describe your objectives, responding with realistic assessments, through explanations, thoughtful recommendations, and honest answers to any questions you may have. Start to finish, we will be a trusted source of guidance and support throughout the legal process.
Contact the Family Law Firm Where There Are No Problems, Only Solutions
When you meet with us for your free initial consultation, you will experience the passion we feel for what we do. We practice family law exclusively and do it well. Contact us today to get started.
Paternity: Frequently Asked Questions
At Gravel & Wechter P.C. we are dedicated to family law. Our attorneys understand how important family is to our clients and believe there are no problems — only solutions.
Our Gurnee, Illinois, office handles many questions regarding paternity. Below are the most frequently asked questions about paternity issues, along with general answers.
Do I Need a Paternity Test?
It depends. If you and the child’s mother were married when the child was born, or 300 days prior to when they were born, you could be legally assumed to be the father.
If there is no dispute over who is the child’s father, parents can also complete a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity (VAP) to have the father’s name put on the birth certificate. If a man’s name is on the birth certificate, they are considered to be the father. Genetic paternity testing may be ordered when parents are unsure as to who the child’s biological father is.
How Do I Get Child Support in Illinois?
Once paternity has been established, either through a DNA test or by signing a VAP, both parents are responsible for providing for the child.
Will My Boyfriend Automatically Be Considered the Father?
If you were not married when the child was born, probably not. Even if you live together or plan to get married, his name cannot be on the child’s birth certificate until paternity is established through the legal system or through a VAP.
How Can I Get Parenting Time?
Once paternity is established, biological fathers generally have a right to ask for parenting time or decision-making abilities for their child. In most cases, a court will assume a child benefits from having both parents involved in their life.
Call Now To Get Answers To Your Paternity Questions
No two cases are the same, and these answers should not be taken as legal advice. Contact us today to get the answers you need.
If you would like to discuss your particular case, call 847-416-8340 to schedule an initial consultation at no charge with a lawyer. You can also use our online contact form to make an appointment.