Even if a father has been added to a birth certificate, that does not give the father a legally enforceable custody right in Missouri. Legally enforceable custody in Missouri must be established through the Court. Like a divorce, the parties usually reach an agreement in something called a Joint Parenting Plan, which sets forth the custody, parenting time and decision making responsibilities of the parties.

Child support is established in a Paternity action as well, and, like custody issues, may be agreed upon by the parties.

The benefit of a Paternity action is stability for the parents and the children.  The parents will appreciate the plan for co-parenting peacefully, and the children will benefit from knowing both parents love them and are doing everything in the children’s best interest.

If you are a parent of a child and were not married to the other parent, we work to get custody, a parenting plan and fair child support for that child. 

If the parents cannot agree on custody issues or child support the case must be litigated and presented to a trial judge in a hearing.

Regardless of whether you are the father or the mother, we will fight for your rights as a parent to have a meaningful relationship with your child.

Feel free to call us and to get help with your Paternity case.