Merrillville Paternity And Legitimation Lawyers

If you have a child, you already know the great joys and sacrifices you will experience for his or her sake. If your child was born while you were not married to the other parent, you may also have additional struggles and heartache, especially if the child’s paternity is in question.

At Robert A. Plantz & Associates, LLC, we understand what is at stake when paternity issues arise. Robert A. Plantz has helped many parents in Merrillville resolve these matters, and he is ready to assist you when you contact our offices.

Why Is It Important To Establish Paternity?

Thankfully, a child born out of wedlock is no longer called illegitimate. However, if the other parent disputes the child’s paternity, the child may lack many legal benefits, such as:

• Financial support from the father
• Custody or visitation time with the father
• The right to inherit from the father’s estate
• Access to family medical history

Without establishing paternity, the father may surrender his parental rights including the right to form a strong and lasting bond with his child and the right to any authority over major decisions about the child’s upbringing.

Helping Parents Meet Their Goals

If both parents agree about the identity of the father, legitimation is usually a simple process. However, if there is a dispute, you may need to file a paternity case in court. Robert A. Plantz & Associates, LLC has experience offering vigorous representation for these and other situations:

• A mother seeking financial support from the man she believes is the child’s father
• A man trying to claim parental rights
• A child who wants to know who is the biological father
• A man seeking to prove he is not the father of a child

There are critical steps you must take as quickly as possible before or after the child is born. Robert A. Plantz & Associates, LLC are skilled in these matters and can guide you through the process to help you meet your goals with discretion and sensitivity.

Who Can Bring About Court Action For Paternity In Indiana?

The legal process in Indiana is not limited to the parents, so that several parties can initiate a paternity action. Establishing paternity gives the child access to support, inheritance and other benefits.

Parties that can file include:

• The child’s biological mother
• The alleged or biological father
• The child (through a guardian or representative)
• The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS)

If you are unsure who can act or how to begin, our attorneys offer a free consultation to discuss your legal options and provide trusted legal advice based on your role and rights.

How Long Does An Unmarried Father Have To File Paternity In Lake County, Indiana?

According to Indiana Law, an unmarried father in Lake County must file for paternity before the child turns two years old. This timeline is applicable if the father is seeking to establish parental rights through the court system.

Failing to act within this window can limit your legal options, including custody, visitation or decision-making rights. Our Merrillville team can guide you through the legal process and help you take immediate action. Reach out to Robert A. Plantz & Associates, LLC, for a free consultation and trusted legal advice.

Why Hire A Merrillville Paternity Attorney From Robert A. Plantz & Associates, LLC?

When facing paternity matters in Indiana, hiring a skilled Merrillville paternity attorney can help protect your rights. Paternity issues are part of family law, and they often involve sensitive emotional and legal concerns. Whether you are a father seeking parental rights or a mother looking for child support, our attorneys guide you through every step of the legal process.

At Robert A. Plantz & Associates, LLC, we offer a free consultation to help you understand your legal options and make informed choices. With over 25 years of experience handling paternity cases, we provide personalized legal advice tailored to your needs. Other benefits you may include:

• Client-focused approach that keeps your goals and your child’s best interests in mind.
• Clear explanations of your rights, responsibilities and the legal process involved.
• Free consultation is available to explore your case before making any commitments.
• Strong track record of excellent results in similar cases.

Attorney Robert A. Plantz is here to support you through the complexities of paternity law in Indiana.

Request A Free Review* Of Your Case

Robert A. Plantz & Associates, LLC, is ready to handle your case. Call our offices in northwest Indiana at 219-561-0263 or online so you can discuss your goals with a lawyer and establish an appropriate course of action for your rights as a father.