In the modern landscape of family law, defining legal parentage is the essential first step in ensuring a child’s future. Whether you are seeking to establish parental responsibilities or are navigating the complexities of a sudden claim of parentage, the path forward can feel overwhelming and unstable.

At The Law Office of Fadem & Associates, APC, we understand that family structures are diverse. We provide inclusive, expert legal guidance to help you navigate the procedures for establishing or contesting parentage, ensuring that the welfare of your children remains the top priority.

When a child is born to parents who are not married or in a registered domestic partnership, “paternity” or legal parentage must be established in order to seek custody orders in court. A birth certificate naming both parents is not sufficient on its own – parents must seek a formal parentage determination with the court.

Establishing parentage is about more than just a name on a birth certificate; it creates a legal bond that provides:

Determining parentage has become both simpler and more complex in the 21st century. While DNA testing has made biological proof more accessible, modern family building has introduced new legal nuances.

If you were not married to the other parent at the time of the child’s birth, you must file a Petition to Establish Parental Relationship. This is a necessary prerequisite before the court can make any orders regarding:

Whether you are seeking to hold a parent accountable or need to prove you are—or are not—the legal parent of a child, we are here to provide the clarity and representation you deserve.

Your issue may be time sensitive, please contact our Law Firm to set-up your Initial Consultation.

Please read the FAQs’ prior to your Initial Consultation.

We practice in all California Counties. In addition, Our Attorneys represents clients throughout California, the United States, and foreign countries with regard to Hague Matters.