Start With the Real Issue
Define the Decision in a Paternity Matter
The initial review should determine whether parentage has already been acknowledged or adjudicated and whether a court or child-support agency case is pending.
A useful consultation is more focused when the immediate objective, the people involved, the current procedural posture, and any deadline or upcoming event are identified before solutions are discussed.
- Confirm the current legal parentage status
- Identify related custody and support needs
- Prepare for testing, acknowledgment, or court process if applicable

