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Understanding Paternity Law in Oklahoma: A Comprehensive Guide
At Lai & Turner Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how crucial paternity issues can be for both parents and children. Whether you are a father striving to establish your parental rights or a mother seeking support for your child, understanding paternity law in Oklahoma is essential. With hundreds of 5-star reviews, we take pride in being known as "The People's Attorney," dedicated to offering exceptional legal services. Led by Founder Jimmy Lai and Family Law Director Eric L. Strocen, our experienced team of family law attorneys is here to guide you through every step of your paternity case, ensuring your rights are protected.
Facing a Paternity Issue in Oklahoma? Call Now!
Are you dealing with a paternity matter? Our expert attorneys are here to help you. Call us now at 405-369-5643 to see if you qualify for our uninterrupted VIP Strategy Session with one of our experienced family law attorneys. Take the first step toward securing your rights—schedule your free discovery call today!
Why Is Establishing Paternity So Important?
Paternity is more than just confirming biological parentage—it defines the legal rights and responsibilities of fathers and provides crucial support and benefits for the child. Establishing paternity grants fathers rights like custody, visitation, and decision-making authority. For children, it opens the door to vital resources, including:
- Financial support from both parents
- Access to health insurance
- Social Security and inheritance rights
- Insight into their father’s medical history for healthcare purposes
In Oklahoma, unmarried fathers cannot claim their rights or participate in their child's life without legal paternity. Let us help you navigate this important process.
How Is Paternity Established in Oklahoma?
There are several methods to establish paternity, and we at Lai & Turner Law Firm are here to assist you in determining the best path forward. These include:
- Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP): A voluntary process where both parents sign a legal document. This simple process places the father’s name on the birth certificate.
- Presumption of Paternity: If a man is married to the child’s mother at the time of birth, Oklahoma law automatically presumes him to be the father.
- Court-Ordered Paternity Testing: If paternity is disputed, we can guide you through the court process to resolve the matter through genetic testing.
- Default Judgment: If the alleged father does not respond to a court order, a default judgment may be issued, determining paternity in his absence.
Contesting Paternity? We’re Here to Help
Sometimes, paternity may need to be contested due to doubts or errors in the legal determination. Whether you’re a father disputing paternity or a mother looking to challenge a previous determination, it’s important to act quickly. Contact our team for expert guidance and a free discovery call to explore your legal options.
Why Establishing Paternity Matters for Fathers
Establishing paternity secures a father's legal rights in Oklahoma. Without it, unmarried fathers have no automatic claim to custody, visitation, or decision-making authority. Once paternity is established, you can pursue:
- Custody: Seek joint or sole custody based on the child’s best interests.
- Visitation: Ensure meaningful time with your child.
- Decision-Making Authority: Play an active role in decisions about your child’s education, healthcare, and welfare.
Beyond the legal advantages, establishing paternity fosters a stronger emotional connection, allowing fathers to build lasting bonds with their children.
Call Lai & Turner Law Firm Now for a Free Discovery Call!
If you're facing a paternity issue in Oklahoma, Lai & Turner Law Firm, PLLC is here to help. Contact us at 405-591-5233 to see if you qualify for our uninterrupted VIP Strategy Session with one of our attorneys. Let us help you protect your parental rights and guide you through the complexities of paternity law. Alternatively, visit our office at 2000 N. Classen Blvd. STE 230, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73106, or fill out our online form, and a team member will be in touch.