Legal issues relating to paternity, including child support and child custody can be difficult and emotionally trying. Whether you require legal assistance in proving paternity or establishing child custody and visitation, our lawyers at Quay Law Centre can assist you.
Paternity issues typically follow this path in British Columbia:
- Presumption of fatherhood: First, the court will consider whether there is a presumption of fatherhood if a child's paternity is in question. Generally, if a man is in a relationship with the child's mother, he will likely be presumed the father. The Family Relations Act provides much greater detail regarding this matter.
- Presumption rebuttal: If the presumed father denies paternity, he may rebut the presumption of fatherhood and have a paternity test conducted. Without a formal rebuttal, the man will likely be required to pay child support for the child.
- Paternity/DNA testing: Paternity can be established or disproved through testing. Today, DNA tests are the most accurate tests available, with over a 99 percent accuracy rate.
Representing Mothers
When a child's parentage is in question, we can help the mother establish the paternity of the child through DNA testing. Once paternity is scientifically and legally established, we will work to obtain court orders for appropriate child support.
Representing Fathers
If the test reveals that our client is the father, we will work to negotiate, mediate or litigate appropriate child support arrangements. A father's rights extend beyond the chequebook. We will also help you establish and exercise your right to access to your child.
Our law firm is also available to enforce or seek variances to court-ordered child support, access and custody arrangements.
To arrange a consultation with a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer regarding a paternity issue, please contact Quay Law Centre online, call 604-200-0530 or call toll free 877-895-1426. From our offices in New Westminster, we represent clients in the Metro-Vancouver area, including Surrey, Fraser Valley, Tri-Cities, Burnaby, and any other area throughout B.C., Canada and internationally.
