Paternity helps to legally determine whether a man is the biological father of a child. Paternity determination also has implications in custody and childcare. It can confirm a father’s rights as a parent or exonerate someone from paying unfair child support. When paternity is in question, a thorough, understanding paternity attorney in Honolulu is vital. However, looking for a lawyer can be a difficult task. Some tips are provided below to ensure clients find representation.
• Paternity cases fall under one of two larger categories: family law or child custody law. Clients should start their search with attorneys who focus on these areas.
• Once clients have gathered a list of potential attorneys, they should ask around about the success rate and reputation of each lawyer.
• Newspaper archives and the internet can help clients find out more about an attorney’s success and the cases he or she has covered.
• Clients may have to go out of town to find an attorney. In smaller areas, conflicts of interest can arise within a small pool of lawyers who work together daily. Clients shouldn’t despair about this, though. Attorneys are generally willing to communicate by phone and email when necessary.
• Many lawyers offer a free consultation. Clients should use this to gauge the attorney’s enthusiasm and the case’s probability of success.
• Once clients have found a lawyer, they should look up the paternity laws that apply to their area. Laws vary state by state, and clients should be as prepared as possible for their first attorney meeting. This is also the time to gather any pertinent information, evidence, and documents.
In a Hawaii marriage, either the child’s mother or father can request a paternity action. Paternity can be claimed without genetic testing if both parents agree. After an initial paternity claim, a man can legally change his mind. However, custody can only be disputed for a short time. If this is the case, clients are urged to act immediately. When seeking for a paternity attorney in Honolulu, clients have a variety of choices, but research is necessary. A paternity lawyer will provide thorough representation, information, and understanding.
