Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey
Paternity Test
I am currently paying court ordered child support for a child whose paternity was established by my omission, but I wasn't really sure. I did not have the paternity test done at the time because I was getting married to someone else and did not want to drag out the issue. I have no specific court orders for visitation and live in a different state than the child, so I have never seen him. Can I still request a paternity test now, or is it too late?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Paternity Test
Please be advised that I have not been retained to represent you and I am basing my response on the limited information supplied. However, I do not believe it is ever too late to establish paternity. There are some factors for you to consider though. For instance, if it does turn out to be your son and he knows you tried to disclaim him, that could make a future relationship with him very strained to say the least. Since you have never seen the child, emotional issues will likely not be a large factor and based on the limited information you supplied, it is probrably a good idea to determine if the child is actually yours. However, do not act on any advice off the Internet from anyone who does not know all of your facts. If you wish to speak with me further, I can be reached at 908-537-7975.
GOOD LUCK
Re: Paternity Test
Thank you for your inquiry.
I do not beleive that it is too late for you to pursue a paternity test. However, the age of the child as well as the extent of your relationship with the child are very important factors as to whether a Judge would terminate your parental rights and/or obligations to the child.
As it would be my pleasure to speak to you regarding your potential divorce, please feel free to contact my office at 732 246 0909 to discuss same.
Very truly yours,
Edward R. Weinstein