When it comes to child custody, the state of Florida takes the issue very seriously. In order to ensure that both parents are held accountable for the well-being of their child, the state requires that paternity must be established for legal rights to be granted. In this blog, Miami child custody attorneys discuss Florida's paternity laws and how they affect parents.


First and foremost, it is important to understand that paternity is established when a father is legally recognized as the biological parent of a child. This legal recognition grants certain rights and responsibilities to the father, as well as certain rights and responsibilities to the child. In Florida, there are three ways to establish paternity:


1. Marriage: Under Florida law, when a couple is legally married when a child is born, the husband is automatically considered the legal father of the child.


2. Voluntary Acknowledgement: A father can voluntarily acknowledge paternity through the Florida Department of Revenue's Office of Vital Statistics. This can be done at any time before or after the child is born.


3. Genetic Testing: If the father is not listed on the child's birth certificate, or if the mother and father are not married, then paternity can be established through genetic testing. Genetic testing is typically done through a laboratory and can definitively prove whether or not a man is the biological father of a child.


Once paternity is established, the father will be legally responsible for the financial support of the child. This includes child support payments and other financial obligations. The father may also be granted certain rights such as the right to visitation and custody of the child.


For some parents, paternity can be a complex issue. If you are a parent who is dealing with a paternity issue in Florida, it is best to consult with a knowledgeable Miami child custody attorney. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, and help you navigate the legal process of establishing paternity.



To learn more about Rafool, PLLC, including our team of Miami family law attorneys, visit us online or call 305.567.9400.