Paternity can be a difficult or confusing issue when one is unsure who the child’s biological father is. Occasionally, individuals think it normal to go on with their child’s birth without knowing the other rightful parent. Other times, people may just want to avoid various situations related to finding the child’s rightful parent. Whatever the case may be, if you have a child, you may want to read the info below on why it may be essential to establish paternity.
Identity Purposes
On the one hand, the child needs to know their family. On the other hand, it can be important for the father to be aware of their biological child. Identity is more than having a biological father listed on a baby’s birth certificate. In establishing paternity, it is important to form extended relationships for both the child and the father’s identity.
Financial Means
If you are having a baby and are unsure who the other biological father is, you could be missing out on benefits that could otherwise help raise the child.
These can include pension, retirement, social security benefits, life insurance, and potentially inheritance rights in the event that something will happen to the child’s father.
Medical History
After you have a baby, it can be extremely important and helpful to know the history of both parents to ensure a safe and healthy future for the child.
The national center for biological information even stated, “Family history is thought to be a good predictor of an individual’s disease risk because family members most closely represent the unique genomic and environmental interactions that an individual experiences. Inherited genetic variation within families clearly contributes both directly and indirectly to the pathogenesis of disease.” -.NCBI
What Should You Do Next?
If you or a loved one needs to establish paternity or another family-related legal matter, often the next best step to take is to talk to someone experienced with family law.
At Baxter Law, LLC, we may be able to help with your family law case today. Call us today to talk to someone at (541) 238-9210.