Legal Question in Family Law in Missouri

I am one of a possible 3-4 fathers of a baby boy who's mother does not want a paternity test.The baby boy was born premature at the end of November with a due date of Feb 18th. Possible drug addiction is why he was so early. The mother JUST had a Felony drug arrest reduced to a misdemeanor last week, This isnt her 1st time either. I've been told of 4, but know of two.And had made it perfectly clear to engage in the illegal activities in the near future.I know she is recieving aid from the State and has made it perfectly clear there will be no fathers name on the Birth Certificate because she is "protecting the could-be father".... I do know that they State has done a home inspection of the many dogs cohabited trailer two weeks after the baby was born. I was told this was not common practice of State unless they felt the newborn's potential home may be a hazard, Her Mother and She possibly plan to exclude the baby's father from his life. I not having children of my own want to be a BIG part of his life if he is mine. If he isn't, then they should quit playing mind games. I am very far of being around the drug scene, have held a permamnt job in factory for 15+ yrs, and have had no prior convictions or arrests of any kind. I greatly fear for my possible Son's life... What are my rights? What can I do?


Asked on 1/17/11, 11:05 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael R. Nack Michael R. Nack, Attorney at Law

Very simply, you should file a lawsuit seeking a Determination of Paternity. The Court will order DNA testing. If you are the Father, you may seek a Judgment granting legal and physical custody of the child to you (and ordering the Mother to pay child support to you.) Or, you can ask for whatever rights you want to exercise concerning the child. If you are not the father, the Court's Judgment will protect you from ever having to contribute to the support of some other man's child. I have handled hundreds of these cases in the thirty-three years I have been practicing law, and I might be able to help you. Please feel free to give me a call.

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Answered on 1/24/11, 11:12 am


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