Legal Question in Family Law in Texas
Establishing Paternity and Obligations
My son is 16 and has two potential fathers, who I haven't spoken to in 17 years, but both knew I was pregnant and keeping the baby. I've never asked for or received child support. Baby recently expressed interest in knowing who his father is, and frankly I could use some financial help with his college expenses, which I feel is the least his father can do. Where do we start?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Establishing Paternity and Obligations
You are still within the limitation period for filing a paternity action and establishing the parent-child relationship between the biological father and the child. You will in all likelihood need to hire an attorney to assist you. While the Court cannot order for the payment of college expenses, it can order that retroactive child support be paid or you might be able to negotiate a lump sum payment from the father in satisfaction of all or a part of the past 17 years of child support that was not paid. I am a board certified specialist in the field of family law, and can assist you with this matter. Contact me if you are interested in visiting more about your options.
Re: Establishing Paternity and Obligations
You file a paternity suit, determine who the father is, and ask for child support. The best way to do this is to hire an attorney.
FYI - While child support continues through the child's turning 18 or graduating from high school and you may be able to claim some retroactive support, the Courts are not going to order the father to pay for college.
Feel free to contact my office if you are interested in pursuing this.
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