In Florida, if a child is born to unmarried parents, paternity must usually be established before the court can order child support or time-sharing (custody and visitation).



Why Establishing Paternity Matters

Establishing paternity gives both parents and the child important legal rights, including:

• The ability to request child support
• The right to seek time-sharing with the child
• Access to medical and family history
• Legal recognition of the parent-child relationship

Without paternity, a father may not have enforceable rights, and a mother may not be able to obtain support through the court.

How to Establish Paternity in Florida

There are a few ways paternity can be established:

1. Voluntary Acknowledgment

If both parents agree, the father can sign an acknowledgment of paternity (often done at the hospital). This legally establishes paternity without going to court.

2. Filing a Paternity Case

If paternity has not been established, one parent must file a Petition to Establish Paternity in the circuit court.

In Fort Lauderdale, this is filed in Broward County court.

3. DNA Testing

If paternity is disputed, the court may order scientific DNA testing to determine whether the alleged father is the biological parent.

What Happens After Paternity Is Established?

Once paternity is legally established, the court can address other important issues:

• Child Support: Based on both parents’ income
• Time-Sharing: A schedule for when each parent spends time with the child
• Parental Responsibility: Decision-making authority

Florida courts base these decisions on the best interests of the child.

Can You Get Child Support Without Being Married?

Yes—but only after paternity is established.

If the parents were never married, the court cannot order child support until legal paternity is confirmed.

What If the Other Parent Disagrees?

If one parent denies paternity, the case may become contested.

In these situations, the court will rely on evidence—often including DNA testing—to make a determination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filing incomplete or incorrect paperwork
• Waiting too long to take action
• Not requesting DNA testing when needed
• Trying to handle a contested case without guidance

Mistakes can delay your case and affect the outcome.

Do You Need a Lawyer for a Paternity Case?

While you can file on your own, paternity cases can become complicated—especially when disputes arise over child support or time-sharing.

An attorney can help:

• Prepare and file the correct documents
• Request DNA testing if needed
• Represent you in court
• Protect your parental rights

Paternity Cases in Broward County

Most paternity cases in Broward County involve mediation if there are disputes. If an agreement is reached, it can be submitted to the court for approval.

If not, a judge will decide based on the facts and what is in the child’s best interests.

How Quinn Law, P.A. Can Help

Quinn Law, P.A. assists clients in Fort Lauderdale and throughout Broward County with paternity cases, including establishing parental rights, child support, and time-sharing.