Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities in Missouri Paternity Cases
Establishing paternity is a critical legal step for parents and children alike. In Missouri, the process is governed by the Uniform Parentage Act, found in Chapter 210 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, along with relevant case law. These laws provide the legal framework for determining the identity of a child’s biological father and establishing the rights and responsibilities that come with that determination.
Paternity cases often extend beyond simply identifying the biological father. Once paternity is legally established, additional issues frequently arise, including:
- Child Custody – Determining where the child will live and how parenting time is shared between the parents.
- Child Support – Calculating financial support based on state guidelines and the child’s needs.
- Retroactive Support and Expenses – Seeking reimbursement for medical bills, prenatal care, and other costs incurred while raising the child before paternity was established.
- Legal and Physical Custody Rights – Ensuring both parents’ rights are legally recognized and clearly defined.
- Payment of Attorney Fees – In some cases, courts may require one party to pay part or all of the other party's legal fees.
Whether you are a mother seeking support or a father seeking to assert your parental rights, it’s essential to have experienced legal guidance. Establishing paternity not only helps clarify legal obligations, but also fosters a stronger, more secure relationship between parent and child.
If you’re involved in a paternity matter in Missouri, attorney David J. Howard can provide the knowledgeable and compassionate representation you need. With extensive experience in family law, we can guide you through every step of the process and help you achieve a fair and lasting resolution.
Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about your rights under Missouri paternity law.