Protecting Individuals, Families And Children Every Step Of The Way

For More Than 20 Years
Photo of Lisa A. Ruggieri P.C.
  1. Home
  2.  » 
  3. Fathers' Rights
  4.  » Your paternity rights: The right to your child in Massachusetts

Your paternity rights: The right to your child in Massachusetts

Paternity is an important factor in raising a child. To the courts, it makes the difference between visitation and custody rights along with the child support payments you’d need to make. Establishing paternity is vital, because without it, you have few rights as a parent.

Paternity has to be established if you weren’t married at the time of your child’s birth. You may also choose to seek a paternity test if you were and are unsure that the child is yours. You can establish your paternity in one of two ways. Either seek a court order or sign a voluntary acknowledgement of being the child’s father.

Once you sign a paternity form, you have granted your child specific rights. For instance, your child receives the right to inheritance. He or she can also have access to your life insurance and medical benefits according to the law in Massachusetts. Of course, your child will also have a chance to have a relationship with you and will know both parents.

If you’re not convinced you’re the parent of a child, you don’t need to sign over your paternity voluntarily. In fact, you can opt for testing to be done to prove you’re the father. DNA testing is the most common form, and it can typically be done through a blood test or mouth swab. By looking at the DNA, the results will clearly show if you are responsible for the child or not.

If you’re in a situation where you’re not sure what to do about your paternity rights, you need to understand all the legal implications. Don’t sign paperwork you aren’t sure about.

Source: Mass.Gov, “Paternity Establishment” Sep. 26, 2014

5 Star Reviews

A Superb Lawyer!

Lisa guided me through the divorce process and helped me obtain my desired outcome. Throughout the entire process, she helped make the process as painless as possible. Lisa is truly a super lawyer who will be an asset to anyone that utilizes her knowledge, experience, dedication and abilities!

– Eric E.

Successfully Settled My Case With Just One Court Appearance

My ex husband is an attorney and I knew I needed a top notch attorney on my side in order to secure a favorable outcome. In less than a month, from start to finish, Attorney Ruggieri successfully settled my case with just one court appearance.

– Carol K.

All Of The Online Reviews Of Attorney Lisa Ruggieri Are True!

All of the online reviews of Attorney Lisa Ruggieri are true! If you need top-notch legal advice to land you on your feet post-divorce, I would highly recommend the Law Offices of Lisa Ruggieri. Lisa is very knowledgeable and draws a strong line around defending and protecting her clients.

– Eugenia Z.

She Was Aggressive And Never Backed Down

I found Lisa through reviews and was not disappointed. Lisa and her staff were great! They were very supportive and explained everything. She was aggressive and never backed down, even when I wanted to settle. She always looked out for my best interest, even when I didn’t want to. I can’t recall a single debate she lost during the entire case. If I were ever in a similar situation again (which will not be anytime in the foreseeable future!), I would call Lisa.

– Erik T.