Paternity
At the law office of Zwaanstra Law Office, P.C, our experienced attorneys and staff have been assisting individuals in their paternity cases since 1996. We understand the emotions that are involved in these types of situation, and treat you and your case with the respect you deserve. Our firm can help you understand the specific paternity laws in Oregon and how they apply to your case.
The child of a wife living with her husband at the time of conception is generally presumed to be the child of the husband, according to Oregon law. Paternity proceedings are not usually initiated in these types of cases unless one of the parties is contesting that presumption. Legal proceedings to determine paternity are generally initiated when a child is born out of wedlock or a woman is pregnant with a child that was conceived out of wedlock.
Mothers, appointed guardians, and men claiming to be the father of the child in question all have the ability to initiate paternity proceedings. Our firm has historically represented all three of these types of individuals who are seeking to define their legal rights and responsibilities relative to the child’s parentage.
If and when paternity is established, the Oregon courts have the authority to order either parent to pay past and future support and maintenance of the child while the child is still a minor or during his or her attendance at school. Postnatal care and prenatal birth expenses may also be subject to repayment. However, it is important to keep in mind that a determination of paternity as it relates to child support, particularly in the administrative setting, does not automatically affect custody and parenting time. This issue will be addressed by the courts only if brought to their attention through the proper legal channels.
Contact the paternity lawyers at the office of Zwaanstra Law Office, P.C. today. We strive to resolve your case as efficiently and effectively as possible. Flexible appointment times are available for you to schedule a consultation with an exceptional attorney at our office. Let us help you take control of your paternity situation.
We serve clients throughout Oregon and Washington, and many of our Oregon clients come from Washington, Clackamas, and Multnomah Counties and the surrounding communities including Beaverton, Gaston, Tigard, Wilsonville, Oregon City, Gresham, Tualatin, Aloha, Lake Oswego, Forest Grove, and Portland.