With the help of a parentage attorney in Oceanside, CA, people can establish a genetic link to a child. DNA testing has been used for quite some time to establish paternity, but in some cases, it can change lives for the worse. There are some moral questions that come into play when establishing paternity.
What About the Child?
If a person is seeking the assistance of a parentage attorney in Oceanside, CA to establish a genetic link to an older child, they have to consider how the kid might be affected. What if the child already has a bond with the man that they think is their father? How will the child react to finding out that someone they called their dad for over a decade isn’t biologically related to them?
Is the Father Prepared for the Results?
A father might wish to get a DNA test to see if there is misattributed paternity. Unfortunately, the results of the test could change a relationship that has existed for years. It’s not uncommon for fathers who find out that there is misattributed paternity to withdraw all support from the child. That can turn a kid’s world upside down, especially if the mother really doesn’t know who the biological father is.
When Is the Ideal Time to Establish Paternity?
The best time to establish paternity is at birth. DNA testing has been readily available and affordable for over two decades now. In some cases, alleged fathers opt to have DNA testing done before the child is even born. With the help of an attorney, a man who is willing to establish paternity can petition the court to get the mother to cooperate with genetic testing.
Answering the Tough Questions
At the end of the day, each case is unique. If a man thinks he is a child’s father but sees that the child has been living in a loving family for many years, they might choose to not pursue genetic testing. Individuals have to make the right choices for their unique situation.
Anyone who needs help with DNA testing can click here to contact an attorney. People can also talk matters over with counselors who can help guide them through the process.