Struggling With a Paternity Dispute in Massachusetts? Our Family Law Attorneys Are Here to Guide You
Navigating a paternity dispute can be emotionally and legally complex, especially when the well-being of a child is involved. Whether you’re seeking to establish or challenge paternity, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable family law attorney on your side. With offices in Boston and Salem, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson provides dedicated representation for families across Eastern Massachusetts, including Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties.
As a trusted divorce attorney and family law firm, we work with clients in cities such as Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy. We understand that paternity cases are often deeply personal and involve sensitive issues of custody, child support, and parenting time. That’s why we focus on building strong legal strategies tailored to your situation—while always keeping your family’s best interests at heart.
Understanding Paternity Disputes in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, establishing legal paternity is crucial for determining parental rights and responsibilities. If a child is born to unmarried parents, the father is not automatically recognized as the legal parent unless certain legal steps are taken.
According to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 209C, paternity can be established either voluntarily or through a court action. A voluntary acknowledgment must be signed by both parents and filed with the Registry of Vital Records and Statistics. However, if one party disputes paternity or refuses to sign the acknowledgment, legal action is often necessary.
Paternity disputes may involve:
- Contesting the biological relationship between a father and child
- Seeking to establish paternity for custody or visitation rights
- Addressing child support obligations
- Rebutting a presumption of paternity made under the law
Each case is different, which is why it’s important to work with a Massachusetts divorce attorney who understands how to interpret and apply the law to your specific circumstances.
Why Legal Representation Matters in Paternity Cases
Paternity disputes can impact nearly every aspect of a family’s life—emotionally, financially, and legally. An experienced family law attorney can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, manage court filings, and represent you during hearings or trials if needed.
In Massachusetts, courts base custody and support decisions on what is in the best interest of the child. Therefore, whether you’re seeking to prove or disprove paternity, it’s critical to present clear evidence and a compelling case. This is especially true if the dispute becomes part of a larger custody or divorce proceeding.
Our legal team works closely with clients to ensure their voices are heard and that they receive fair treatment under the law. We understand the stakes, and we’re here to help you reach a resolution that supports your family’s long-term stability.
Serving Families Across Suffolk and Essex Counties
The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is proud to represent individuals and families throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties in Massachusetts. From our conveniently located offices in Boston and Salem, we are able to provide accessible, local legal support to those facing paternity disputes and related family law issues.
In Suffolk County, we regularly assist clients in neighborhoods such as Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, and Chelsea. These diverse communities often face a variety of legal challenges when it comes to paternity, custody, and support matters. We are deeply familiar with the courts and procedures in this region and understand how to navigate them effectively on behalf of our clients.
In Essex County, our family law attorneys work closely with residents of Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, and Saugus. Whether you’re located along the North Shore or in a surrounding town, our team is available to help you address sensitive legal matters involving your child’s parentage. We bring a local understanding and a professional commitment to every case, ensuring that your family receives the legal guidance it deserves—close to home.
By maintaining a strong presence in both counties, we ensure our clients have access to responsive, experienced legal counsel no matter where they live. If you are dealing with a paternity issue in either of these regions, we are here to support and represent you throughout the process.
Legal Process for Paternity Disputes
Handling a paternity dispute in Massachusetts involves a series of legal steps designed to determine a child’s legal parentage. This process can vary depending on whether both parties agree or one side is disputing paternity. Below is a general outline of how these cases typically move forward under Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 209C):
- Filing a Complaint for Paternity
A paternity case usually begins when one parent—either the mother or the alleged father—files a formal complaint in family court to establish legal parentage. This can be done in the Probate and Family Court in the county where the child lives. - Court Orders Genetic Testing (if needed)
If paternity is in question, the court may order DNA testing to determine if the alleged father is the biological parent. The results of this test are typically given significant weight in the court’s decision. - Court Hearings and Evidence Review
Once the test results and other relevant information are available, the court may hold a hearing. During this time, both sides can present evidence, testify, and make legal arguments regarding paternity, custody, and support. - Issuance of Court Orders
After reviewing all the facts, the judge will issue a legal determination of paternity. If paternity is established, the court may also issue additional orders for child support, custody, and parenting time depending on the circumstances.
Having a skilled family law attorney by your side can ensure your case is properly filed, your rights are protected, and the court has all the information needed to make a fair and informed decision.
How We Support You
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we take pride in helping clients resolve difficult family matters with professionalism, empathy, and strategic insight. When you work with us on a Paternity Dispute, you can expect:
- Personalized legal strategies tailored to your goals
- Thorough preparation for court proceedings and documentation
- Clear communication at every step
- A balanced, respectful approach focused on the child’s best interest
Set Up a Strategy Session Today
Paternity disputes are deeply personal legal matters that can affect the lives of children and parents for years to come. Don’t navigate these issues alone. Whether you are a father seeking to establish your rights, or a mother needing clarity and support, our team is here to help.
Contact us now to set up a strategy session and let us guide you through the legal process with clarity, experience, and care. With offices in Boston and Salem, we are committed to serving families throughout Eastern Massachusetts with professionalism and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a man is proven not to be the father in Massachusetts?
If genetic testing proves a man is not the biological father, the court may dismiss the paternity action or remove his legal obligations. However, if he previously acknowledged paternity or was married to the mother at the time of birth, he may still have legal responsibilities, depending on the case facts.
Can paternity be established without a DNA test?
Yes. In Massachusetts, paternity can be voluntarily established when both parents sign and file an Acknowledgment of Parentage with the state. No court hearing or DNA test is required if both parties agree.
Is there a time limit to contest paternity?
Yes. Under Massachusetts law, there are statutory deadlines for challenging paternity. These deadlines can vary based on circumstances, so it’s essential to consult a family law attorney quickly if you believe a challenge is needed.
After paternity is proved, what rights does a father have?
Once legal paternity is confirmed, a father may petition for custody, visitation, and parenting time. He may also be ordered to contribute to child support. The court’s decisions will always consider the child’s best interests.
Can a mother refuse a paternity test in Massachusetts?
A mother can object, but the court has the authority to order a paternity test if it finds sufficient reason to establish the child’s parentage. Non-compliance may affect the outcome of the case.