Massachusetts Paternity

No. Establishing paternity creates the legal parent-child relationship, but custody and parenting time are determined separately by the court based on the child's best interests or by agreement of the parties.

In some circumstances, yes. Whether paternity may be challenged depends on the specific facts of the case and the applicable provisions of Massachusetts law.

No. Some cases are resolved through a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage, while others may require genetic testing or a court determination.

Yes. The court may establish child support, health insurance obligations, and other financial responsibilities as part of a paternity proceeding.

Yes. Paternity actions frequently include issues involving legal custody, physical custody, parenting time, and child support.

Although an attorney is not required, paternity proceedings often involve important legal rights relating to children, custody, parenting time, and financial obligations. Experienced legal representation can help ensure that your rights are protected and that the court has the information necessary to make informed decisions.