Understanding how paternity influences child custody disputes is essential for parents navigating the complexities of Illinois family law. Paternity does more than confirm a biological connection—it establishes a legal bond that influences decisions regarding custody, visitation, and child support.
For fathers, proving paternity can establish parental rights and the ability to play a meaningful role in a child’s life. For mothers, it ensures a pathway to support and helps secure the child’s relationship with both parents. With the guidance of an experienced Illinois family law attorney, parents can protect their rights and prioritize their child’s best interests.
What Is Paternity and Why Is It Important in Custody Cases?
Paternity is the legal recognition of a man as a child’s father. Without legal paternity, a father may not have rights to custody or visitation, and the mother may not have the ability to seek child support. In Illinois, this can be established in several ways: