Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan
Father's rights
I was told that I was the father of a child born 8 years ago. At that time I signed what I thought was insurance papers. I was then slapped with child support without a dna test. I have mental disabilities with seizures. I have not been able to support myself yet alone a child. I thought I might try to contact the mother and try to be a friend to the child. I have contacted the mother and she doesn't mind talking to me but she is unsure if she wants to let me the child because of my 8 year disappearance. Should I continue to talk to the mother and try to work things out with her or should I do a dna and see if the child is mine and then go from there.? And if the child is not mine can I fix the past due child support and the felony that I have now do to the dollar amount?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Father's rights
You recognize that your inaction has caused this problem. There is no requirement that you provide a DNA test if you are identified as the parent and voluntarily signed papers which support that conclusion.
You need to hire counsel,--you probably won't get out of the past due support (this was an issue that should have been raised on DAY ONE).
Of course, you should try to talk with themother, mediate if you have to, if you think that having a relationship with you (even after 8 years) is in teh child's best interest, and it is something you want.
Chances are, the child will need a lot of third party support for the sudden appearnce of her Dad, so don't expect everything to go smoothly.
You ought to consider getting a lawyer to help you sort all of this out, particularly if you know you have a mental illness or disability.
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