Naperville, IL Paternity Attorneys

Experienced Lawyers Assisting With Paternity Disputes in Naperville, Illinois

A father's bond with his child is something that should be treasured. However, when concerns arise over a child's legal parentage, the bond between father and child could be placed at risk. Likewise, naming a child's legal parent is also important for ensuring that fathers fulfill their obligations. If you need help establishing legal fatherhood, a Naperville paternity attorney can advocate for you in court.

At Fay & Farrow, we grasp the critical importance of paternity, especially as it relates to custody rights. Our lawyers have decades of legal experience, so you can rely on us to provide you with clear legal advice and strong representation when it counts.

Why Is Paternity Important?

Establishing paternity creates a legal link between a father and his child, conferring rights and responsibilities that affect both parties. When paternity is recognized, a child gains access to health insurance coverage, child support, inheritance under Illinois law, and access to veteran or Social Security survivor benefits. These protections can make a critical difference in a child's well-being and future opportunities.

For fathers, legal paternity secures the right to seek parenting time and decision-making authority concerning education, medical care, and religious upbringing. Without a formal determination of parentage, a father may find his role limited or even excluded in matters that shape a child's daily life. Illinois courts apply a "best interests of the child" standard when resolving disputes, and a clear record of paternity informs judges of each parent's connection and capacity to provide for their child's needs.

Ways to Establish Paternity in Illinois

Illinois law recognizes multiple avenues for a man to become the legal father of a child. One common method is presumed paternity at birth. When a married woman gives birth, her husband is automatically presumed to be the legal father. Even if the couple was divorced at the time, the ex-husband may still be presumed to be the father if the marriage ended within a certain time frame. In cases involving unmarried parents, a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity (VAP) may be signed at the hospital. Once executed and filed, a VAP serves as a binding admission of parentage until it is challenged within the statutory timeframe.

If a man does not sign a VAP or otherwise disputes the claim of paternity, either parent may petition the court to establish paternity. The court will consider evidence such as hospital records, statements from the parties, and affidavits from witnesses. When presented with credible evidence of parentage, the court may enter an order that names the legal father.

Genetic Testing for Paternity in Naperville

When questions persist about biological parentage, genetic testing provides definitive answers. Accredited facilities in Naperville offer DNA tests that compare genetic markers from the child and the alleged father. Most tests require only a simple cheek swab and return results with 99.9 percent accuracy.

A court-ordered genetic test may be necessary when a party contests a voluntary acknowledgment or when the original presumed father is not available for testing by mutual agreement. In those instances, the court will direct a qualified laboratory to perform the analysis and submit the results to the court. If the test confirms paternity, the court will issue an order that formally recognizes the father's legal status, mandates child support payments, and outlines a parenting time schedule based on the child's best interests.

Contact a Naperville Paternity Lawyer Today

At Fay & Farrow, our firm prioritizes your needs. Leveraging years of courtroom experience and strategic advocacy, we will support you every step of the way with clear guidance and compassionate representation. Call 630-961-0060 or contact our Naperville paternity attorneys today to set up a free consultation.