Legal Question in Family Law in Texas
A woman has a child, and gives the child her last name, she names no father on the birth certificate. She comes forth 14 years later and tries to get support. If paternity is established can the father sign over rights based on the fact that she accepted sole custody up to this point with no regard to the father?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Request DNA testing.
If you are the father then you will be ordered to provide medical insurance and child support.
Most courts won't let you "terminate" your rights and avoid paying child support. It is the policy of the State of Texas for all parents to support their children. If she has received any federal or state aide, then the State will be looking to you for reimbursement of this money.
The good news is that the Texas Family Code limits how many years she can collect retroactive child support.
Please hire an attorney and do not set foot into a courtroom (or negotiation) without an attorney to advise you as to your rights.
I would encourage mediation with a qualified mediator to try to negotiate this matter.
Look on this website & www.avvo.com for an attorney.
I hope this helps.
www.familylaw4u.com
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