Paternity Attorney in Odessa, Texas
In the case of unmarried parents, paternity must be established before any parties gain rights to visitation or child support. We can guide you through this process and help protect your rights.
At Robles Family Law Firm, we provide comprehensive paternity representation for families throughout Odessa, Midland, Andrews, and the Permian Basin. With over 15 years of experience in Texas family law, our attorneys understand the complexities of paternity cases and are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Why Choose Robles Family Law for Your Paternity Case?
When you're facing a paternity matter, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Here's why families throughout Odessa, Midland, and West Texas trust Robles Family Law:
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Paternity FAQs - Odessa, Texas
Common questions about paternity in Texas answered by our experienced attorneys.
How is paternity established in Texas?
Three ways: the marriage presumption (husband is presumed father), signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) at the hospital or later, or a court order after DNA testing. Establishment creates both rights (custody, visitation) and duties (support).
Can I get DNA testing before paying child support?
Yes — if you're sued for paternity, demand genetic testing before signing anything. Once you sign an AOP or a court adjudicates you, undoing it later is far harder and deadline-driven.
What rights does an unmarried father have in Texas?
None enforceable until paternity is legally established — the mother has sole authority by default. After establishment, an unmarried father can seek conservatorship and possession on equal legal footing with any parent.
I signed an AOP but I'm not the father — what now?
Within 60 days you can rescind it. Beyond that, you can challenge it for fraud or material mistake, and Texas's mistaken paternity statute (§161.005) lets you terminate within 2 years of discovering you're not the biological father. Deadlines control everything — act fast.
Does establishing paternity make back child support automatic?
Courts can order retroactive support, typically up to 4 years back (more if the father knew and evaded). The amount considers what he could have paid and any informal support actually provided.
Excellent attorney! Made the process smooth/painless and always had my best interest in mind. Did not make me feel like a client but more like a family. Would recommend to anyone looking for an attorney for child support or divorce. Thank you, Mr. Robles for representing me and my baby boy!