Cross-Border Family Law

Legal Paternity

Establishing — or disputing — paternity where it is contested, and dealing with what follows either way.

Talk to us

Tell us the situation and we will tell you what we think you should do — and what it will cost.

Who this is for

  • Fathers denied acknowledgement of a child
  • Mothers seeking to establish a father’s legal responsibility
  • Men disputing a claim of paternity
  • Families dealing with inheritance questions

What we handle

Scope of work

Paternity petitions and defences

Court-ordered DNA testing

Consequential support and custody claims

Correction of birth records

Inheritance and nationality implications

How it works

How we run the matter

  1. Assessment of evidence and objectives
  2. Petition filed with the Family Court
  3. DNA testing arranged through an accredited laboratory
  4. Hearing
  5. Order and registration of the result

Documents to prepare

  • Birth certificate
  • Identification of all parties
  • Communications relating to the child
  • Financial records showing any support paid
  • Existing DNA results

Common questions

The court can draw conclusions from a refusal. In practice, refusal often weakens the refusing party’s position.
Legal parenthood brings support obligations and opens the door to custody and visitation applications by the father.

Speak to a lawyer

Legal problems are easier to manage when addressed early.