Knoxville Paternity Lawyer  

Helping Clients Establish Paternity in Tennessee

At Jodi Loden, PLLC, our team of experienced family law attorneys in Knoxville is here to assist you with various legal matters, including paternity cases. We recognize the importance of paternity in family law and are committed to providing you with the guidance and support you need to navigate these complex issues. If you are searching for a Knoxville paternity lawyer, look no further. Our legal team is here to help you understand and establish paternity in Tennessee. 

Call Jodi Loden, PLLC, today at (865) 424-7225 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our paternity attorney in Knoxville!

What is Paternity?

Paternity refers to the legal recognition of a man as the father of a child. Establishing paternity is crucial for various reasons, including determining parental rights and responsibilities, ensuring child support, and facilitating a child's access to medical, genetic, and inheritance information. It is also fundamental to a child's emotional well-being, providing them with a sense of identity and connection to both parents.

Paternity can be established in several ways, but it is most commonly done voluntarily or through court orders. Understanding the different methods of establishing paternity in Tennessee is essential to protect your rights as a father or to confirm the biological father of a child.

Establishing Paternity in Tennessee

In Tennessee, paternity can be established through the following methods:

• Voluntary Acknowledgment: This is the simplest way to establish paternity. Both parents can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form, which legally recognizes the father as the child's parent. This form is typically signed at the hospital after the child's birth or can be obtained from the Tennessee Department of Health.
• Court Order: If there is a paternity dispute or one parent refuses to acknowledge paternity, the court can establish it. This often involves DNA testing to confirm biological paternity. Our skilled attorneys can guide you through this process, advocating for your rights and ensuring a fair resolution.
• Administrative Paternity Order: In some instances, the Tennessee Department of Human Services may issue an administrative paternity order based on genetic testing or other evidence. This can be initiated by a child's mother, a legal representative, or a government agency.
• Legitimation: In some situations, if the parents later marry after the child's birth, the child may be legitimated, which automatically establishes paternity. However, it is essential to consult with an attorney to understand the specific circumstances and legal requirements.