Paternity is fatherhood. Either parent can bring an action to establish the paternity of a child born out of wedlock using a paternity lawyer. The Court will the determine child time-sharing and child support, just as in dissolution of marriage actions. In Florida, there are five ways paternity may be established: by marriage, by signing an Acknowledgement of Paternity, or through Genetic Testing, Court Order, or Legitimation.
Paternity gives rights and benefits to the mother, the father and the child. Every child deserves to have a legal father and the support of both parents. Paternity gives both parents the legal right to get a child support order, get a court order for time-sharing, and have a say in legal decisions about the child.