Paternity
Establishing or Disputing Paternity in Texas
Paternity cases often carry high emotional stakes—and major legal consequences.
Whether you’re seeking to confirm or disprove paternity, the outcome of a paternity case can shape custody, support, and your long-term parental rights.
Spofford Law has represented mothers, fathers, and alleged fathers in paternity cases for nearly four decades. From establishing legal fatherhood to protecting clients from unfair claims, Chris applies deep knowledge of Texas Family Law to guide you through the process and help you make informed, strategic decisions.
FAQ about Paternity in Texas
Paternity cases determine the legal father of a child—and with that, the rights and responsibilities that follow, including child support, custody, and visitation. These cases are common when the child is born to unmarried parents.
Yes. An alleged father can seek to disprove paternity through legal channels, but strict timelines and procedures apply. Chris helps clients follow the correct steps to challenge paternity when appropriate and protects their rights throughout the process.
If the parents are not married, the father can establish paternity by signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity or filing with the Texas Paternity Registry. This preserves a father’s legal rights and may be necessary before seeking custody or visitation.
Once paternity is established, a father may pursue rights related to custody, visitation, and decision-making in the child’s life—just like any other parent. Chris helps fathers assert these rights while always focusing on the child’s best interest.
Every situation is different. Chris offers confidential consultations to review your circumstances, explain your legal options, and help you make the best decision for your family and your future.
The legal labels matter less than the specific rights you’re awarded. Even in joint custody situations, one parent may have exclusive rights over key decisions like the child’s residence, education, or healthcare. Chris focuses on securing the parenting rights that truly affect your child’s day-to-day life and future.
The custodial parent is usually the one who determines the child’s primary residence and may hold exclusive rights in areas like education or medical care. The noncustodial parent typically has “possession and access” rights (visitation), and depending on the order, may also share in key decision-making. Chris works to ensure these distinctions reflect what’s best for your child—and your role in their life.
No. Under Texas law, gender cannot be considered when determining custody. Both parents are evaluated equally under the law. According to the Texas Attorney General’s office, around 10% of noncustodial parents are mothers.
Courts consider what’s in the best interest of the child, guided by factors from the landmark case Holley v. Adams, including:
- Past parenting conduct
- The desires of the child
- Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs
- Emotional and physical danger in either home
- The stability of the home environment
Chris uses these standards to build compelling, evidence-based custody presentations.
es. Custody and visitation orders can be changed if circumstances significantly shift. Common reasons include:
- Relocation of one parent
- A change in the child’s best interest
- One parent violating the custody agreement
- Child endangerment due to unsafe living conditions
Chris has extensive experience pursuing and defending against modifications—and understands how to present the strongest possible case.
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If you’re facing divorce, custody, or complex family issues, let’s talk. We’ll listen, offer honest feedback, and help you understand your next steps — with no pressure.
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