When it comes to family law, paternity is a critical issue that affects the legal rights and responsibilities of both parents and children. Whether you’re a father seeking to establish your parental rights, or a mother looking to secure child support for your child, understanding the legal framework around paternity in Oklahoma is crucial.

At Lai & Turner Law Firm, PLLC, we are proud to be known as “The People’s Attorney,” with hundreds of 5-star reviews reflecting our dedication to providing top-notch legal services. Our experienced family law team, led by Founder Jimmy Lai and Family Law Director Eric L. Strocen, specializes in navigating paternity cases and helping families secure their legal rights.

If you’re facing a paternity issue in Oklahoma, our experienced attorneys are here to help. Call us today at 405-369-5643, or visit our office at 2000 N. Classen Blvd. STE 230, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73106, to schedule your free discovery call.

What Is Paternity and Why Is It Important?

Paternity refers to the legal determination of a child’s father. Establishing paternity is more than just confirming biological parentage—it provides a framework for legal rights, financial responsibilities, and the child’s well-being. In Oklahoma, once paternity is legally recognized, the father gains rights such as custody, visitation, and decision-making authority over the child. Furthermore, paternity allows the child to access important benefits, including:

– Financial support from both parents

– Health insurance coverage

– Social Security and inheritance rights

– Access to the father’s medical history, which may be critical for the child’s healthcare needs

Without paternity being established, unmarried fathers in Oklahoma cannot legally claim parental rights or enforce their ability to participate in their child’s life.

How Is Paternity Established in Oklahoma?

There are several methods to establish paternity in Oklahoma, and the appropriate one depends on the circumstances. At Lai & Turner Law Firm, we guide our clients through the following processes:

1. Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP)

The simplest way to establish paternity is by both parents voluntarily signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) form. This can typically be done at the hospital after the child is born or later at the Oklahoma State Department of Health. The AOP legally recognizes the father and places his name on the birth certificate. However, once signed and filed, the AOP is difficult to revoke and can only be contested under specific circumstances like fraud or duress.

2. Presumption of Paternity

Oklahoma law presumes that a man is the father of a child if he is married to the child’s mother at the time of birth or within 300 days after their marriage ends. This presumption means that no additional legal actions are required to establish paternity. However, if a husband doubts his paternity, he can request genetic testing before signing the AOP.

3. Court-Ordered Paternity Testing

In cases where paternity is disputed, a court can order genetic testing to resolve the matter. Either the mother, the father, or the child can initiate this legal process. A DNA test is highly accurate and is used to confirm or deny paternity, which then becomes the basis for the court’s paternity determination.

4. Default Judgment

If the alleged father fails to respond to a paternity petition or court order, the court may issue a default judgment, which establishes paternity in his absence. This can have significant legal and financial implications, including mandatory child support payments.

Contesting Paternity in Oklahoma

There are situations where either parent may want to contest paternity. For example, if a father believes he is not the biological parent of a child, or if a mother seeks to challenge an earlier paternity determination, the law provides avenues to do so. However, it’s important to act quickly, as there are time limitations on contesting paternity. Typically, a paternity acknowledgment can only be challenged within a set timeframe unless fraud, duress, or material mistake of fact is proven.

If you’re considering contesting paternity, contact Lai & Turner Law Firm at 405-369-5643 for expert legal advice.

Why Establishing Paternity Matters for Fathers

Establishing paternity is the key that unlocks your rights as a father. Without legal paternity, fathers—especially unmarried fathers—do not have automatic rights to custody or visitation. Once paternity is established, however, you can seek legal recognition of your rights, including:

– Custody: You can file for joint or sole custody, depending on what is in the best interests of the child.

– Visitation: Even if you do not have physical custody, you have the right to request a visitation schedule that allows you meaningful time with your child.

– Decision-Making Authority: Fathers can participate in important decisions regarding their child’s education, healthcare, and overall welfare.

Additionally, establishing paternity can be an emotional and relational benefit for fathers and children, as it provides an opportunity for fathers to form a strong, lasting bond with their children.

Contact Us for a Free discovery call on Paternity Matters

Navigating paternity law in Oklahoma can be complex, but you’re not alone. Lai & Turner Law Firm, PLLC, is here to help you assert your rights and protect your relationship with your child. We serve Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas with personalized legal solutions tailored to your unique situation. Don’t wait—call our experienced paternity attorneys today at 405-369-5643 to schedule your consultation. Alternatively, fill out our online contact form, and a member of our team will get in touch with you.

PaternityPaternity in Oklahoma