Paternity

Paternity Lawyer in Newton, MA

Comprehensive Legal Support for Paternity Matters in Massachusetts

Paternity establishes a legal relationship between a father and his child and both a father or mother can initiate a paternity action which can be brought to obtain child support or visitation and custody rights.

The Halks Firm is prepared to effectively navigate you through Massachusetts’ paternity laws. Learn how our Newton paternity attorney can help – call our firm at (781) 995-0107.

Understanding Paternity Laws in Massachusetts

Our experienced paternity attorney is knowledgeable of how the Massachusetts family courts treat paternity matters. There are many different circumstances clients can find themselves in that will affect how they should proceed with their case.

Paternity Considerations During Divorce

Upon divorcing, a father may request a paternity hearing if he believes the child is not his.

Paternity Challenges for Unwed Parents

If you and the other parent of your child did not get married but are separating, you will still have to support your child.
Massachusetts laws dictate that you are responsible for supporting your child until age 18 if he or she does not attend college and to age 23 if he or she does.

Should I Initiate a Paternity Action?

If you are wondering if it is a good idea for you to initiate a paternity action, consider the following:

For a father: Establishing paternity is almost always advised. This should be done before you agree to any custody, visitation, or child support agreement.
For a mother: It is usually wise to not push the supposed father to obtain paternity testing if he has already agreed to pay child support. In Massachusetts, once you agree to pay support, you will be bound by this agreement.

Impact of Establishing Paternity on Children

When paternity is established, a child should be supported by both parents, can be included in the health insurance of either parent, can receive benefits that both parents have earned, can inherit from both parents, and can have a relationship with both parents.

Navigating Paternity Issues in Newton, MA

Navigating paternity issues can be particularly challenging, especially for families facing the complexities of child support and custody arrangements. Local resources, such as the Newton Family Services and the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, provide valuable information and support for parents dealing with these matters. However, many individuals still find themselves overwhelmed by the legal processes involved.

Recognizing Common Challenges in Paternity Matters

One common pain point for residents is the uncertainty surrounding parental rights and responsibilities. For fathers, establishing paternity is crucial not only for securing visitation and custody rights but also for ensuring that they can contribute to their child's upbringing. On the other hand, mothers may face difficulties in obtaining child support from fathers who are reluctant to acknowledge their responsibilities.

Additionally, the emotional toll of paternity disputes can be significant. Families in Newton often seek guidance on how to approach these sensitive issues while minimizing conflict. Our team is familiar with the local landscape and can help you navigate the intricacies of paternity law in Massachusetts, ensuring that your rights and the best interests of your child are protected.

Whether you are a father seeking to establish your rights or a mother looking to secure support, we are here to assist you.

Protect your rights and the rights of your children throughout a divorce proceeding. Speak with our Newton paternity lawyers at (781) 995-0107 or online.

What Sets Us Apart

Assists with All Documents & Negotiations
You're never alone in this process. We're here to help you every step of the way.
Consistent Communication
We focus on individual attention to each one of our clients.
Experienced Trial Attorney
Attorney Nicholas Halks has tried over 40 cases.
Award-Winning Representation
Attorney Nicholas Halks is recognized by legal organizations such as Avvo, CALI, and The National Advocates.
Free, No-Obligation Consultations
We offer free consultations to discuss your case and consider your options.

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At The Halks Firm, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

“When all was gone you, and your firm allowed hope.”
Nick- you, and your team are awesome! Dea Thank You again today for all your help! The Halks Firm made it happen today. Judge Roberts was extremely impressed with the agreement. When all was gone you, and your Firm allowed hope. Thanks again Joe

Joe
“Nick was able to understand my situation and to put my child’s best interests as the top priority.”
I hired Nick last February when an urgent family matter occurred. Throughout the year, Nick and his team has helped me at each step of the process regarding to my child custody case. Nick is a professional, knowledgeable, detail-oriented attorney who takes his clients’ cases seriously. Whether it was drafting legal documents or representing me in the court, I felt confident with Nick and his team behind my back. Being a parent himself, Nick was able to understand my situation and to put my child’s best interests as the top priority. The rest of his team is very professional as well and easy to reach to whenever I had questions. Overall, I am very satisfied with the work that Nick and his team has done.

Junru
“When you want the BEST, call The Halks Firm!”
I was referred to Nick from another probate attorney who I couldn't afford. With my son being in a state of crisis, my family under duress, and having recently received a not so favorable outcome with a prior attorney; Nick made time to meet with me within days. During that initial meeting he was empathetic, showed compassion to my situation and was not overpriced; I was also provided with his intended direct course of action that was going to ensure change and results that were in the best interest of my son. Nick and his team kept me informed throughout the entire process and made sure there was an open line of communication. Even now, months later I received outreaches from the team to check in on us! Knowing that there is no garentee on the outcomes court wise, I knew my family was in good hands. Without having to go all the way to trial; I received everything we were requesting and more! If I ever have to go to court again, The Halks Firm will be my first and only call.

Monique
“It was the hardest experience in my life but Attorney Halks was my savior from day one.”
I recently got divorced. I went through serious trauma in my married life and It was the hardest experience in my life but Attorney Halks was my savior from day one. From the initial consultation to post divorce he was there for me. He and his legal team were always there whenever I reached out, and had answers to my concerns within minutes. I genuinely appreciate his efforts to resolve the situation peacefully, though my ex-wife was literally abusive. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney. Thanks a lot Attorney Halks !!!

Jay

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