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Paternity

Establishing Paternity in Massachusetts Courts: A Comprehensive Guide

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When it comes to establishing paternity in Massachusetts, understanding the legal process and the roles of various parties is crucial. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the roles of the court, attorneys, children, and parents in Massachusetts paternity cases. We’ll also touch on the modification of existing paternity orders.

Read more about Father’s Rights in our BLOG.

The Court’s Role

The Massachusetts court plays a vital role in paternity cases. It handles:

  1. Paternity petitions: The court receives and processes petitions from mothers, alleged fathers, or children seeking to establish paternity.
  2. DNA testing: The court may order DNA testing to confirm or deny paternity.
  3. Paternity orders: The court issues orders that officially establish paternity, and subsequently, child support and custody.
  4. Modification: The court reviews requests to modify existing paternity orders in light of new evidence or changed circumstances.

Attorneys’ Role

In paternity cases, attorneys represent the interests of their clients. They provide:

  1. Legal advice: Attorneys guide clients through the complex paternity process, ensuring they understand their rights and responsibilities.
  2. Representation: Attorneys advocate for their clients in court, presenting evidence and arguments to support their cases.
  3. Negotiation: Attorneys may negotiate child support, custody, and visitation agreements between the parties.
  4. Modification assistance: Attorneys help clients petition for modifications to existing paternity orders when necessary.

Parents’ Role

Parents play a crucial role in establishing paternity. They must:

  1. File petitions: Either parent can file a petition to establish paternity with the court.
  2. Submit to DNA testing: Both parents must submit to court-ordered DNA testing if required.
  3. Comply with court orders: Parents must follow court-ordered child support, custody, and visitation arrangements.
  4. Participate in modifications: If circumstances change, parents must notify the court and seek appropriate modifications.

Children’s Role

While children may not actively participate in the legal process, they are at the heart of paternity cases. Their interests are:

  1. Emotional well-being: Establishing paternity provides a sense of stability and identity for children.
  2. Financial support: Paternity orders ensure children receive adequate financial support from both parents.
  3. Custody and visitation: Establishing paternity helps determine custody and visitation arrangements, promoting healthy relationships with both parents.

Modification of Existing Paternity Orders

Circumstances change, and Massachusetts courts recognize that paternity orders may need modification. Parties can request modifications for:

  1. Child support: If either parent’s financial situation changes significantly, the court may adjust child support payments.
  2. Custody and visitation: If the best interests of the child require a change in custody or visitation, the court may modify the existing order.

To sum up, establishing paternity in Massachusetts involves the participation of the court, attorneys, parents, and children. Understanding each party’s role and the modification process ensures a smoother journey through the legal system.


This information is intended only to be an introductory guideline because each case is unique and presents different issues. If you seek unparalleled service and outstanding results, look no further than Reeves Lavallee PC. Our team of accomplished professionals is committed to providing you with exceptional service and innovative solutions tailored to your unique needs. Don’t leave your future to chance; instead, entrust it to the skilled hands of our dedicated professionals who have a proven track record of success. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward achieving your goals. Remember, with Reeves Lavallee PC by your side, the sky’s the limit. Let us be the wind beneath your wings as you soar to new heights. and presents different issues. If you have questions, please feel free to contact our office.

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