Paternity Lawyer New York, NY
Paternity matters in New York, New York affect the legal relationship between a father and child—determining rights to custody, visitation, and financial support. When a child is born to unmarried parents, the biological father is not automatically recognized as the legal parent. A parentage proceeding must be brought in New York Family Court to establish a legal father-child relationship. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents mothers and fathers in paternity matters throughout New York County (Manhattan) and all New York City boroughs. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, and his Of Counsel team bring extensive experience to parentage, custody, and support cases. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Paternity Means in New York, NY
Establishing paternity is the legal process of naming a child’s father. In New York, this is often called a parentage proceeding. The New York Family Court—located at 60 Centre Street in Manhattan—hears petitions to determine parentage under the New York Family Court Act. Once paternity is legally established, the father may seek custody or visitation, and the court may enter a support order. Paternity may be established by the filing of an acknowledgment of paternity, signed by both parents, or through a court proceeding where genetic testing can be ordered.
In New York County (Manhattan), the Family Court has jurisdiction over paternity petitions. A mother, a man claiming to be the father, the child, or a representative of a child may file a petition. The court may direct genetic marker or DNA testing to resolve factual disputes about biological parentage. If paternity is confirmed, the father’s name can be placed on the child’s birth certificate. The court then addresses related issues of custody, parenting time, and child support, applying the “best interests of the child” standard.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Paternity Cases
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach every paternity matter by first understanding the unique family dynamic and the client’s goals—whether a mother seeking support, a father seeking access to his child, or a party contesting an allegation. They guide clients through the petition process in New York Family Court, prepare the necessary evidence, and advocate for appropriate orders. When genetic testing is required, they facilitate the court-ordered process and challenge any procedural defects if needed.
Once parentage is determined, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to resolve associated custody and support issues either through negotiation or litigation. They present the statutory factors under New York law—such as each parent’s role in the child’s life and the child’s relationship with both parents—to seek a fair determination. Throughout the case, the team maintains communication and ensures the client understands the steps ahead. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing since 1997. A former prosecutor, he is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The Of Counsel team includes attorneys with diverse backgrounds—all working collaboratively on paternity and family cases. Together, they serve clients across New York, New York, from the firm’s location at 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202. To schedule a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is paternity?
Paternity is the legal determination of who a child’s father is. In New York, when parents are not married, the biological father does not automatically have legal rights. A paternity case in Family Court formally establishes a father-child relationship. Once paternity is settled, the court can address custody, parenting time, and child support. Paternity may be established voluntarily through an acknowledgment signed by both parents and filed with the state, or through a court-ordered proceeding that may include genetic testing.
How is paternity established in New York?
Paternity may be established by filing a petition in New York Family Court or by signing an acknowledgment of paternity. A mother, a man claiming to be the father, the child, or a child-support agency can initiate a court proceeding. If the parties disagree about parentage, the court may order DNA testing. Once the test results are received, the court issues an order of filiation if the man is the biological father. An experienced attorney can guide a parent through the filing and hearing process.
Why is establishing paternity important?
Establishing paternity gives a child legal ties to both parents, including inheritance rights, access to medical history, and eligibility for benefits. For a father, it opens the door to custody and visitation. For a mother, it allows the pursuit of child support. Without a legal determination, a father cannot enforce parenting time, and a mother cannot compel support from the non-marital father. In New York, paternity proceedings are the first step in solidifying these rights and obligations.
Can a father request a paternity test if he doubts parentage?
Yes, a man who questions whether he is the biological father can request genetic testing in a New York paternity case. The Family Court may order a DNA test, which is typically non-invasive and highly accurate. If the test excludes the man as the father, the court dismisses the petition. Legal representation helps protect a man’s rights while the results are pending. The court will not order genetic testing if the child has already been adopted or certain other time bars apply.
How does paternity affect child custody and visitation in New York?
Once paternity is established, a father may petition for custody or parenting time. The court applies the “best interests of the child” standard to determine legal and physical custody arrangements. A father who has been adjudicated can seek joint or sole custody, or regular visitation. The court considers each parent’s relationship with the child, ability to provide care, and any history of domestic violence. Legal parentage is a prerequisite for a father to participate in custody proceedings.
Do I need a lawyer for a paternity case in New York, NY?
While you are not required to have an attorney, a paternity lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. Paternity matters often involve complex procedural rules, genetic-testing orders, and later custody or support issues. An experienced attorney ensures that paperwork is correct, deadlines are met, and your interests are advocated in court. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Related pages: Family Law Lawyer New York, NY · Child Custody Lawyer New York, NY · Divorce Lawyer New York, NY · Child Support Lawyer New York, NY
Additional resources: New York City Family Court · New York Domestic Relations Law · New York State Unified Court System
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