Paternity

Minneapolis Paternity Attorney

Serving Parents in the Twin Cities and Surrounding Counties of Hennepin, Anoka, Ramsey, Washington, Dakota, Scott & Carver

A paternity proceeding is a legal action to judicially determine the biological father of a child, resulting ultimately in an order establish the father’s custody and parenting time rights with the child. Establishment of the child’s paternity impacts the child’s inheritance rights, adoption, custody and support of the child, and the ability of a parent to provide health insurance for the child. Either parent may start a paternity proceeding. If the child’s paternity is in dispute, DNA testing will be conducted. Once paternity has been established, the issues which need to be addressed concerning a minor child are the same as in a divorce proceeding: custody, parenting time, child support and medical support.

In some cases the parents may have signed at the time of birth a document called a “Recognition of Parentage” (“ROP”) in which they acknowledge under oath that they are the child’s biological parents.  Many parents thinks this establishes legal custody rights, but it does not.  Although the ROP legally establishes the child’s parentage, it does not give the birth father any custody or parenting time rights, and does not determine the support obligations of the parents. In these cases, while no genetic testing is required, custody and support will have to be addressed in a separate legal proceeding.

While a formal legal proceeding is necessary to establish paternity, custody and support, the resolution of these legal issues may be resolved through Mediation or other forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”).  If settlement cannot be reached, a formal trial may be required to establish custody and parenting time. Once paternity is established, custody and parenting time are considered applying the same custody standards as in a divorce proceeding.

Brian, with his background in child psychology and with over 38 years of experience, is uniquely qualified to represent mothers and fathers in paternity proceedings. We will guide you through the legal process in a manner which best fits the circumstances of your case.

Whichever path you must follow, Brian Sobol will be there to help you, guide you, and fight for your rights. Call (866) 484-4079 or fill out an online contact form to learn more from a knowledgeable divorce lawyer in Minneapolis.

Testimonials

Read What Satisfied Clients Say About Working with Brian
    “I cannot say enough as to the caring and zealous help Brian gave to me and my family.”
    “Brian was tenacious in helping me protect my children and was able to uncover our finances to allow us to ultimately reach a fair division of our property and a fair award of support for me and my children.”
    - Megan C.
    “Brian, is not just a lawyer but a miracle worker as well.”
    “His work is nothing but extraordinary. What he did for my friend was impossible to even think could be done. Brian did what he would do for his own family.”
    - Yelena B.
    “Brian has guided my wife and I, plus extended family members, through some challenging times.”
    “His knowledge in a variety of legal aspects is unparalleled. We feel fortunate to have his representation.”
    - Jeff
    “Brian was efficient, respectful, knowledgeable, personable and wonderful.”
    “He made the process of the ordeal as good as it could have been, including the outcome. I would recommend Brian to anyone, who wants an exceptional professional and advocate to represent them in a legal matter.”
    - Former Client
    “Brian was brilliant.”
    “After Brian negotiated my divorce settlement, my ex-husband, surprisingly, delivered the highest compliment, stating "Brian was brilliant."”
    - Barbara
    “It was tough, but Brian met all of my expectations.”
    “During the past three years Brian helped me through a bitterly contested family law matter.”
    - David
    “I highly recommend Brian Sobol for contentious custody cases especially when opposing counsel is outrageous.”
    “Brian Sobol is methodical in his approach. It takes a long time to move through the family court process but I can sit back now and relax. A highly skilled professional will argue the law and fight for me to see my kids.”
    - Julie M.
    “He is the best lawyer I ever could have been blessed with.”
    “I know I won't have need of for Mr. Sobol again. If I did though...Brian Sobol would be the person I would have defend me!”
    - Tammy G.