Legal Question in Family Law in Texas
A 17 year old boy has never been served with papers regarding a paternity suit but received a letter in the mail regarding a hearing with date, time and location. He did not show for that hearing because he was informed by an attorney that he has to be served. Can a judge grant a default judgement against him if the party filing the paternity suit requests it?
1 Answer from Attorneys
If no service of the paperwork has occurred, then the court cannot proceed forward in any manner, other than to possibly approve an order for substituted service. A default will only occur after formal notice has been provided to a Respondent, and the Respondent has thereafter ignored a date to file an answer or to appear in court. I have handled many such cases and would be willing to consult with you. My background and contact information can be found at www.brucezivley.com