Birmingham Paternity Lawyer
Helping Fathers & Mothers in St. Clair, Jefferson, Shelby, and Shelby Counties
Establishing paternity is a crucial step for both mothers and fathers when a child is born outside of marriage. In Alabama, fathers have the right to seek custody and visitation, while children have the right to maintain a meaningful relationship with both parents. However, when parents cannot reach an agreement, legal intervention may be necessary.
At Ruth Robinson Law Firm, we help fathers protect their parental rights and assist mothers in securing the support their children deserve. If you need legal guidance regarding paternity, contact our Birmingham paternity lawyer today. We serve clients throughout St. Clair, Jefferson, and Shelby Counties.
Protect Your Parental Rights – Contact Us Today
If you need help establishing paternity, securing custody, or understanding your legal rights, we are here to assist you. Contact us at (205) 984-1915 to discuss your case.
Why Establishing Paternity Matters
Paternity is the legal recognition of a father’s relationship with a child. Establishing paternity is essential for:
- Fathers' Rights – A legal father has the right to seek custody, visitation, and involvement in decision-making for the child.
- Child Support & Financial Benefits – Paternity ensures that both parents contribute to the child's well-being, including financial support, health insurance, and inheritance rights.
- Emotional & Psychological Well-being – Knowing both parents contributes to a child’s sense of identity and stability.
- Medical History Access – A child gains access to their father’s medical history, which is important for healthcare decisions.
Ways to Establish Paternity in Alabama
A father can gain legal recognition in Alabama through:
- Voluntary Acknowledgment – Both parents sign an affidavit at birth or later.
- Court-Ordered DNA Testing – If paternity is disputed, a court can mandate genetic testing.
- Marriage – If the mother is married at birth, her spouse is presumed to be the legal father.
If you are unsure about your rights or need assistance with a paternity action, our attorneys can guide you through the process.
Alabama Paternity Laws: Your Rights & Responsibilities
Under Alabama law, a mother must notify the father of his paternity rights within 60 days of the child’s birth through:
- Written notification by certified mail
- Personal notification
If the mother fails to notify the father, he has the right to file a paternity action to assert his parental rights. Taking legal action can help fathers secure custody, visitation, and ensure the child receives proper financial support.
Need help asserting your paternity rights? Contact us today.
How Paternity Affects Custody & Child Support
Once paternity is legally established, it impacts:
- Custody & Visitation – Fathers can petition for custody and visitation rights. Courts evaluate factors like parental involvement, stability, and the child’s best interests.
- Child Support Obligations – A legally recognized father is responsible for providing financial support to the child.
- Decision-Making Rights – Fathers can have a say in education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
At Ruth Robinson Law Firm, we advocate for fathers' rights while ensuring that children receive the care and support they need. Whether you are seeking custody, visitation, or child support modifications, our team is here to protect your interests.
Why Choose Ruth Robinson Law Firm?
- Experienced in Alabama Family Law – We understand the complexities of paternity cases.
- Strong Advocacy for Fathers & Mothers – We help parents secure their legal rights.
- Personalized Legal Strategies – Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to your needs.
Don’t wait to assert your parental rights. Contact our Birmingham paternity lawyer today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Alabama Law Handle Disputed Paternity Claims?
In Alabama, disputed paternity claims are resolved through the court system, often involving genetic testing to ascertain biological relationships. When either parent disputes paternity, the court can order DNA testing of the child and potential father to establish a biological connection. This process helps ensure that the correct individual is legally recognized as the father, providing clarity and security in legal and familial obligations. The court uses the results to make informed decisions about custody, visitation, and child support, aiming to serve the best interests of the child.
What Are Paternity Actions & How Do They Work?
Paternity actions in Alabama are legal proceedings initiated to establish the father of a child. These actions can be initiated by the mother, alleged father, or child through a legal guardian. The process typically involves filing a petition with the court, followed by genetic testing if paternity is contested. Once confirmed, the court issues an order identifying the legal father, which then allows the pursuit of rights and responsibilities such as custody and child support. Paternity actions can bring clarity and legal assurance to both parents and the child, underscoring the shared obligations and privileges.
Can a Father’s Name Be Added to the Birth Certificate?
In Alabama, adding a father's name to a child’s birth certificate can occur through an acknowledgment of paternity or a court order. If both parents agree on the father’s paternity, they can sign a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity form, which allows the father’s name to be added to the birth certificate without the need for a court order. However, if there is a dispute, a paternity action may be necessary to establish legal fatherhood before adding his name. This process is crucial for securing a father’s legal rights and responsibilities in the upbringing of the child, ensuring both emotional and financial support.
How Can Ruth Robinson Law Assist in Paternity Matters?
At Ruth Robinson Law, we are committed to providing comprehensive support throughout the paternity determination process. Our experienced team can assist clients by explaining their rights, representing them in court, and helping negotiate parenting plans that align with their children's best interests. We offer personalized attention to address the unique aspects of each case, leveraging our extensive knowledge in Alabama family law to tailor strategies that support our clients' goals and protect their parental interests. Whether through mediation or litigation, our firm ensures that each client receives compassionate and skilled representation.
What Happens if a Mother Does Not Notify the Father About Paternity?
If a mother does not notify the father of his paternity rights as required by Alabama law, the father may lose valuable time in asserting his parental rights. However, the father can file a paternity action with the court to protect and establish these rights. The court can address the failure to notify by systemically reviewing the case to ensure that all parties' rights are considered, providing the father an opportunity to be involved in the child’s life. Understanding your legal options and acting promptly with the assistance of a knowledgeable paternity lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of such situations.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve – Contact Us Now
Navigating paternity and parental rights can be complex. Let us help you take the right steps. Contact us at (205) 984-1915 to schedule a consultation.
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“Great lawyer and dedicated to justice for her clients.”
- JamesMrs Robinson is dedicated to Justice and fairness. She is knowledgeable. And honest. She is the best investigative lawyer I've ever known. She don't stop until Justice is served. Mrs Robinson is honest and reasonable and will tell you the truth. Her courtroom knowledge is second to none. She is family oriented. Has a great attitude and is all around a special person. I would recommend her to any one.
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“She communicated with me throughout the process.”
She got pretrial diversion for me in my case. She communicated with me throughout the process. She also did not have to return to court with me for the final step but she did!- LeAnn -
“GETS RESULTS!!!! PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY!”
I have personally watched Ms. Robinson in open court, and she is exactly what you want! She is THE quintessential attorney! Don't hesitate to contact her, she will immediately start working and your case, and she won't disappoint!- David -
“She went above and beyond”
Due to a misunderstanding, a warrant was issued in Alabama, even though we live in Virginia and hadn't been to Alabama for many years. We were apprehensive about the possibility of traveling to Alabama during these uncertain times. Luckily, Ms. Robinson was able to quickly and professionally interact with local law enforcement and the district attorney's office to get the case dismissed without us having to be there. Throughout her handling of the case, she went above and beyond to make sure we were aware she was doing everything in her power to assist us. We are deeply appreciative of her and her efforts and would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone needing representation.- Lynn -
“Amazing and highly recommended.”
I contacted Ruth Robinson on a Saturday regarding a warrant that was issued for failure to appear. On Monday, she filed a notice of appearance as my attorney and filed a motion to have the warrant recalled. The court told her they’d recall the warrant and set a new court date. Ruth was very professional, diligent, and went above and beyond for me. She listened to everything I told her, requested me to send her several screenshots and filed the necessary paperwork to get the warrant recalled and a new court date. Amazing and highly recommended if you want or need someone who is passionate about practicing law and treating you like you’re a priority.- Terry -
“I trust her completely and she has always worked hard for me.”
Ruth Robinson is a thorough and passionate criminal defense attorney. When I found myself facing criminal charges for something that was completely bogus in a corrupt governmental atmosphere, she has worked with me diligently and continues to do so. I trust her completely and she has always worked hard for me. Better than any attorney I could ask for through and through.- Anonymous
