Paternity Lawyer in Illinois
Sometimes it’s unclear who a child’s legal or biological father is. However, establishing paternity is essential to both parents and the child. Paternity issues are often complex and emotionally draining, making the need for expert legal help almost inevitable. If you are a mother or father with questions about paternity rights and responsibilities or seek to establish or disprove paternity, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced Illinois paternity lawyer. An attorney can explain your legal rights and the paternity process. They can also help protect your rights and present you with your various options.
What is Paternity?
Paternity legally establishes who a child’s father is. It comes with certain rights and responsibilities. Fathers are held accountable for doing their part to support their children financially. If a father doesn’t do this independently, a successful paternity lawsuit can compel him to do so. Paternity also gives fathers the right to child custody and visitation rights. Suppose a mother wants to make an adoption plan. In that case, she can’t follow through unless the father asserts paternity and gives his consent.Â
It is also beneficial for the child in several ways. Knowing the identity of their father can give a child emotional and psychological belonging and relief. Once a father establishes paternity, the child is entitled to:
- Receive aid and shelter from their father
- Financial support from their father
- Access personal information about the known health profiles and risks of the paternal family
- Inherit
- File a lawsuit for harm or death of the father that results in loss to the child
- Receive workers’ comp benefits arising from the father’s death, or other dependent-based governmental assistance
Who is The Child’s Legal Father?
Paternity laws are inherently complicated. The legally recognized father may not necessarily be the child’s biological father. Here’s how the law classifies fathers:
- Presumed Father – A married man who was married to the child’s mother at the time of the conception or birth, or legally accepted as the father to his wife’s baby, or behaved as if the child is his own.
- Acknowledged Father – An unmarried man who has confessed to being the child’s father.
- Unwed Father – An unmarried man who has a child with a woman.
- Stepfather – A man who marries a woman who already had a child from another man.
Each of these types of fathers has its own legal obligations. As such, it’s crucial to have a Orland Park paternity lawyer to advise you accordingly, depending on which category your paternity status falls under.
Why You Might Need a Orland Park Paternity Lawyer
There are several reasons why you might need the services of an experienced Orland Park paternity attorney. The most common reasons are as follows:
- A mother seeking child support
- A father wanting to establish paternity
- A father challenging paternity
- A mother challenging paternity
If necessary, the courts can order a genetic paternity test to help determine the outcome of these issues.Â
Rely on a Compassionate Orland Park Paternity Attorney
Whatever paternity issues you face, a compassionate Orland Park paternity attorney at Dalmares & Associates can help. We know how confusing, emotional, and overwhelming these types of issues can get. We’ve helped many parents just like you get through some of the toughest times in their lives. Let us help you too. Simply contact us today to schedule your paternity case consultation.
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Client Reviews
Chester G.
This place is 1000% recommendable! So far the process has been super smooth and easy to deal with. They placed all my worries out the window and I've slept better knowing they are on my team. Currently in tears knowing I'll be able to resolve this but sad that it's never going to be the family I thought I could have had. It's ok though, it's time to move forward. Thanks DnD.
Jean C.
Demetrios saw my case to the end. Great outcome! Justice prevailed!
Kay L
I would absolutely recommend Demetrios to anyone! He is all for his clients and most importantly honest. He helped me deal with a very difficult situation and got me what I deserved. I already have referred a few people to him and each one so far is very satisfied and happy with their results.
Kim K-I
Demetrios is honestly the best attorney to help through any divorce situation or custody battle. He will go above and beyond to make sure to guide you through it all. I have referred many people to him, and every person has been more than impressed. I even referred someone that needed immediate attention after hours, and he contacted her right away! I can promise you one thing he knows his stuff, and you won’t be disappointed!
Jenna
Demetri is extremely knowledgeable and confident In what he does. He is everything I searched for in a lawyer, I thank him for his determination and courage. I don’t see many lawyers leveling up with him in court, wouldn’t have wanted anyone else by my side during such a tough time.
Edmond
Demetrios is at the top of his profession. The combination of his knowledge and experience along with his experienced and dedicated staff guided me through my legal needs in a timely and compassionate manner. Certainly a monumental task during a pandemic. Thank you, Demetrios.
Murad
Super professional legal services law office. Highly strong communication skills and clients representation. Point-oriented legal path and service. More specifically, I had a very good experience upon hiring and dealing with Attorney Demetrios Dalmares as he understood all I wanted and walked me through all details required to achieve the desired goals with minimal losses. Good job Demetrios! Highly recommended. Good luck and will definitely refer if asked. Thank you
Thank you
Demetrios, I cannot thank you enough for you diligence, patience, knowledge, concern and determination to represent my best interest. From the bottom of my heart, you are amazing and thank you for all you have done for me. Robin
Success Stories
Wife Seeks Unreasonable Share of Business Assets During Divorce
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Husband: Couple shared ownership in a business, resulting in complex property division issues. After investigation of the couple’s financial history, our client received a much more equitable divorce agreement than what was originally offered.
Mother Requests Limited Parental Rights for Father with Violent Past
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Mother: Father became aggressive and violent toward Mother during their separation, prompting her to seek full custody of their children. At trial, the court granted Father supervised parenting time only and Mother was awarded child support.
Bitter Divorce Drawn Out by Poor Representation Until Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. Gets Involved
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Husband: Couple had been locked in a contentious divorce for nearly three years and changed lawyers several times. Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. provided the experience and organization needed to resolve the case within months, avoiding a trial for our client.
Husband Tries to Avoid Spousal Support Based on Outdated Earning Potential
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Wife: Wife left a successful career to raise children. When Husband denied spousal support based on Wife’s previous earnings, Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. countered with evidence that retraining was needed, and our client was awarded spousal support.
Husband Insists on Taking Divorce to Trial
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Wife: Husband tried to intimidate Wife into a divorce settlement that heavily favored his interests by drawing out the case. Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Wife through trial, where she received an equitable share of marital assets.
Father Granted Child Support Adjustment Due to Mother’s Cohabitation
In a case where Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. represented Father: Mother began cohabitating with a new partner who made significantly more than our client. Law Office of Demetrios N Dalmares and Associates Ltd. successfully demonstrated that the new relationship justified a modification and obtained a favorable outcome through negotiation.