Divorce and Child Custody Attorney in Lee's Summit, Missouri
Divorce and Child Custody Attorney in Lee's Summit, Missouri
A paternity matter is the legal avenue available to non-married persons to establish paternity, custody, visitation, and/or child support. Although a common misconception, this does not necessarily mean that a DNA test will be required. The actual paternity testing (DNA test) is only necessary if the paternity is in dispute. In a paternity proceeding, the Court establishes a Parenting Plan. A parenting plan acts as a guide for parents to utilize regarding custody, parenting time, decision making, and financial arrangements for the children. Without a Court Ordered Parenting Plan in place, one parent could suddenly relocate with the child across the country, withhold parenting time from the other parent, or make a major decision regarding the child without consulting the other parent.