Paternity refers to the legal determination of the father of a child. Paternity cases are often used to establish child support and custody arrangements, as well as to establish a legal relationship between the father and child.
In Arkansas, there are two types of paternity cases: contested and uncontested. An uncontested paternity case is initiated when both parents agree on the paternity of the child, and they may file a paternity affidavit with the state and agree on a custody and visitation schedule. A contested paternity case is initiated when one parent disputes the paternity of the child, and the court must order DNA testing or other evidence to establish paternity, or when paternity is admitted but custody or visitation is contested.
If the father is not married to the mother, paternity must be established before the father has any legal rights to the child. Once paternity is established, the court can make orders for child support, custody and visitation. In addition, the father will have the right to have a relationship with the child, and the child will have the right to inherit from the father.
The Arkansas Family Support Chart is used as a guideline for child support calculation, which takes into consideration the income of both parents and the number of children. In addition, the court will consider the best interests of the child when making decisions about custody and visitation.
Our law firm has experience in handling paternity cases in Arkansas. We understand the legal complexities and emotions involved in these cases and can provide guidance and representation through the process. Whether you are a mother seeking to establish paternity and child support, or a father seeking to establish a relationship with your child, we are here to help.
If you have any questions about paternity cases in Arkansas or would like to schedule a consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us.