A parentage case is needed when you have children together but are not married. There are two different petitions that can be filed to start your case:
- Petition to establish parental relationship; or
- Petition for custody and support.
The petition for custody and support can only be used if both parents signed a voluntary declaration of parentage; the parents are married to each other but are not in the middle of a divorce; the parties have adopted a child; or the parties have been determined to be parents of a minor through juvenile court.
If parentage is unclear, the court will order DNA testing.
Each of these petitions will establish custody, timeshare, visitation, and support orders. If temporary orders are also needed, a request for these can be made at the same time the petition is filed.
Please contact our office to discuss your options.
