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Paternity

Omaha Paternity Attorneys

Establishing Paternity and DNA Testing

There are a couple different ways to establish paternity in Omaha, as well as a few benefits to doing so. Our firm works with clients throughout Omaha in family-related matters, including establishing paternity for both the parents’ and the child’s benefit.


Speak with one of our attorneys at Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan for more information. Call (402) 928-2007 or submit a contact form here.


Ways to Establish Paternity

Paternity refers to the legal status of fatherhood. Generally, if a child is born during a marriage, the mother's husband is presumed to be the father of the child. When parents are not married at the time of a child’s birth, though, paternity can be established in one of two ways in Nebraska – through a voluntary process between the parents or, if they cannot agree, through a court proceeding and DNA testing.

The simplest and often most cost-effective way to establish paternity in the state is for both parents to sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity. By signing this document before a notary, both the mother and father agree who the child’s father is. Note that a completed form must be submitted to the Department of Health and Vital Statistics so the father’s name can be added to the child’s birth certificate.

In situations where the mother and father can’t agree to sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity, the child’s mother or the person who believes he is the father of the child can file a paternity petition.

Understanding the Legal Benefits of Establishing Paternity

Establishing paternity is not just a matter of legal obligation; it also opens the door to numerous benefits for both the child and the father. By legally recognizing a father’s relationship with his child, you can ensure that both parties enjoy the rights and responsibilities that come with this bond. Here’s why establishing paternity is crucial:

  • Child Support and Financial Security: Once paternity is established, the father is legally obligated to provide financial support, ensuring the child has access to necessary resources for a healthy upbringing.
  • Legal Rights and Responsibilities: Fathers gain legal rights to make decisions regarding their child's welfare, education, and health care, fostering a more involved parenting role.
  • Emotional and Psychological Benefits: Children benefit emotionally from having a strong father figure in their lives, which can lead to improved self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Access to Family Medical History: Establishing paternity allows children to access important family medical information, which can be vital for understanding hereditary health issues.
  • Inheritance Rights: A legally recognized father can ensure that his child has rights to inheritance, providing additional security for their future.

At Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan, we understand the complexities surrounding paternity cases. Our experienced legal team is committed to guiding you through the process, ensuring that your rights and your child’s best interests are prioritized. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in establishing paternity and securing a brighter future for your family.

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    Dennis G. Whelan Read Full Bio
  • Virginia A. Albers Photo
    Virginia A. Albers

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    For 25 years, Virginia has committed herself to family law practice, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and experience to the benefit of her clients and the legal community.

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  • John S. Slowiaczek Photo
    John S. Slowiaczek

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    With 47 years of practice experience and leadership at the highest level of family law practitioners nationwide,

    John's reputation and track record precedes him.

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Why Establish Paternity?

The legal status as "father" carries both rights and responsibilities to the child. The primary reason for establishing paternity is to benefit the child’s best interests by giving them the legal right to emotional and financial support from both parents, as well as important genetic information.

For the mother and the child, an order of paternity may allow the mother to receive child support and medical insurance from the child’s father to assist in clothing, feeding, and otherwise caring for the child. Additionally, by establishing paternity, the mother and child can also obtain information about the father’s medical history, which can be essential information if the child ever becomes ill or needs information about their genetic background. The child may also be able to receive inheritance benefits from both parents after establishing paternity, like Social Security and veteran’s benefits, if applicable.

For fathers, establishing paternity allows the father to seek custody or visitation (subject to a court's determination of the best interest of the child). This may include the right to be involved in making educational or medical decisions on behalf of the child.

Our Omaha Paternity Lawyers Can Help

Establishing parental rights and responsibilities is complex for both those who have been married and those who haven’t. Parents who have never married may face statute of limitations issues and genetic testing may be required, and parents who have never married may face different issues regarding retroactive child support and gaining access to their children. If you have legal concerns about establishing paternity in Omaha, consult an experienced lawyer for legal support.


Schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers at Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan by calling (402) 928-2007 or submitting an online contact form today.


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