A paternity action refers to a claim filed in the Probate and Family Court by an unmarried parent of a minor child against the other parent, seeking a determination of the rights and obligations of the parties regarding the child. A paternity case usually involves issues of custody, support, visitation, and health insurance.

Where the alleged father denies parentage, the Court will make a determination of paternity based upon several factors including:

·         Blood tests/DNA testing

·         Testimony

·         Other relevant evidence

Once parental status is established, the Probate Court will consider the best interests of the child in ruling on issues of custody, visitation, and support. In most cases, if paternity is established, the non-custodial parent will be ordered to pay child support in accordance with the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines.

Our lawyers at Kerstein, Coren & Lichtenstein have extensive experience in the representation of parents in paternity disputes and can assist you to pursue or defend against a paternity claim.