Marietta Paternity Attorney

Holding Fathers Accountable in Supporting Their Children

At Henrickson & Sereebutra, we know how difficult it can be to live as a single mother and meet the financial demands of daily life alongside supporting your children without the father. We also know that, regardless of the marital status of parents, it is important for each parent to do their part in supporting their children. When fathers fail to perform their duties in supporting their children, mothers may take legal action to enforce the biological father's support. When it comes to holding parents accountable for their children's needs, our Marietta divorce lawyer is here to help.

Fathers Are Required To Do Their Part

Regardless of whether parents are married, divorced, or have children out of wedlock, Georgia state law, requires both the mother and the father to provide for their children's needs. Generally, this means supplying as much as they can in terms of housing, food, clothing, education and medical care and an acceptable standard of living. If the father is not living up to his parental duties, the mother may take action to enforce the law and demand the father to pay his share of the economic burdens.

Claiming Child Support from the Biological Father

You may compel a father to pay the full amount of child support he owes by filing a Child Support Order in court. You may have to be able to prove that the man is the biological father of your children. We understand that every family situation is unique—that is why our divorce attorney in Marietta is able to help each client understand their options and pursue an effective course of action that best suits their individual circumstances.

What if the Father Is Falling behind on Payments?

Even if the biological father falls behind on payments, you may still be able to enforce a court order. In some cases, the court can impose penalties such as wage garnishments, driver's license suspension, and even hold the father in contempt of court. In any case, proving paternity may help you obtain the support necessary to meet your child's needs.

Paternity Actions in Marietta, GA

The first step in your paternity action is to consult with a Marietta divorce attorney from Henrickson & Sereebutra, who can review your case and help you develop a unique strategy for your case. The firm is composed of former prosecutors who have extensive experience in the local courts, and they can provide you with the knowledgeable guidance and dedicated representation you need.

Your case may involve securing an order for genetic testing to establish that the man is the father of your children. Don't worry that by affirming paternity you will also be granting rights of visitation and child custody to a man whom you do not want to welcome into your child's life-these are only available after the father has gone out of his way to carry out the process of legitimation, which you can legally oppose.

Contact our firm for experienced representation!