Legal Question in Family Law in Illinois

I received a summons for "petition to establish parentage" to court in Williamson County courthouse, From The Illinois Dept of Healthcare and Family Services..... Representing a girl I met one night and haven't seen since. My income is extremely low, In fact I just got a job, for 5.80 an hour plus commission at Sears, after a year on unemployment. (I have moved back in with my father at the age of 30.) What do I do? The court date is in 10 days. (The Address on The summons was wrong so it took them 3 weeks to find me) Do I need an attorney at this point?(before I go before the judge) I know they will want a DNA test.( I wore a condom but I know thats' not foolproof.) If the DNA comes back positive, "Can An Attorney help protect my rights( get me a better deal) or is the outcome written in stone?" Thank You


Asked on 5/15/11, 12:26 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Sanford M. Martin Sanford M. Martin, P.A.

An attorney can assist you in such situations to protect your rights and advise you regarding legal options. However, the DNA test will be determinative regarding your responsibility for future child support. Alleged use of a contraceptive will not be helpful and will merely show the possibility of your parentage. You have nothing to gain by refusal to take the test, but an attorney can advise you regarding the law and consequences.

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Answered on 5/15/11, 12:35 pm


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