Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

Paternity petition for anguished dad

My girlfriend wil;l be having our aby soon. Unfortunately she is no longer in contact with my girlfriend as she refuses to tell me when and where she will give birth. I doubt if she will put my name on the birth certificate. Should i file a petition for paternity in New Jersey where she lives or in New York where i live. Do i need a lawyer or i can i do this on my own. I will appreciate any help.


Asked on 1/24/00, 6:54 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Tammy White In House Counsel for TDS Transportation/Tritom Distribution Services

Re: Paternity petition for anguished dad

You would need to file a motion for visitation to see your baby. I believe NJ has jurisdiction but to be sure you need to consult with a family law attorney in NY.

If your ex-girlfriend fights the motion by claiming you are not the father, you could ask the court for a paternity test to prove that you are.

You did not say why your ex will not tell you about the birth. If nothing happened that would be considered harassment, abuse or anything like that, then you should be able to obtain visitation. Even if something like that happened, the court will probably award supervised visitation. Be prepared for a fight, though.

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Answered on 2/09/00, 2:16 pm


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