Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

I have a 7yr old daughter.She was born in Texas.I never married the mother.I have not seen my child since she was a baby.The mother kept her from me and did not want me involved.Now the mother is married and my daughter is asking why she does not look like her dad.The mother wants to tell my daughter about me and she wants me involved.The mother wants me to send money to her for child support.I dont mind supporting my child,i just want it to count legally.The mother wants me to send her cash before i can see my child.I want to take her to court for visitation.The mother does not,she would rather "us" settle this.I dont trust the mother.I would rather go to court and have a timeline of visitation.I live in Chicago i wouuld not want to fly down to Texas and the mother change her mind.I want this to be resolved.I dont have a criminal record nor have i ever had a drug problem.The mother does not have anything against me.I would like to know what are my chances?should i take her to court or deal with the mother?i just want to be involved before its to late.What should i do?


Asked on 10/20/09, 3:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Mark Dunn Mark D. Dunn

Here's what you need to do: Don't even THINK about trying to resolve this without the Courts being involved. Hire a Texas lawyer (go online - there are thousands of us) and have him file a paternity suit in the county where Mom lives. You can do 90% of this by long distance, that is, without you having to come physically to Texas.

You WILL get Court-ordered visitation with the child.

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Answered on 10/26/09, 1:15 pm


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