Paternity A Fresh, Modern Approach to Law

Centennial Paternity Attorneys

Establishing Parental Rights throughout Arapahoe County

In Colorado, when two parents who are not married have a child, parental rights are established by filing either an Allocation of Parental Responsibility or paternity case. At the Law Office of Alexandra White, PC, we can help you understand the differences between the two.

For a free consultation with a skilled paternity lawyer in Centennial, call (303) 647-4245 today.

Protect Your Parental Rights

It is important to formally establish parental rights through a Paternity or an Allocation of Parental Responsibility case. The benefits of formally establishing parental rights through one of these two types of cases are numerous. Child support obligations are established by a court order so that parents get the financial help they need in raising their children.

Parenting time orders secure the role of each parent in the lives of the children. Most importantly, children receive the emotional support and sense of continuity that comes from having two supportive parents who love them.

Understanding Paternity & Allocation of Parental Responsibility in Arapahoe County

Paternity and Allocation of Parental Responsibility cases are similar in many ways, yet distinct. A paternity case provides all of the protections described above but offers two additional components.

A paternity case is often filed when there is a dispute regarding the paternity of the child. Biological fathers looking to prove paternity can sign an acknowledgment of paternity or have the court formally establish paternity through a DNA test.

Additionally, only in a paternity case can the court establish financial obligations retroactive to the child's birth. The court can order child support retroactive to the birth of the child, orders for contribution to the child's medical expenses dating back to the child's birth, and contribution towards birth and prenatal expenses for the mother. For the biological (or other legal parent) whose role has not previously been recognized by the court, their right to have a permanent role in the child's life will be secured.

An Allocation of Parental Responsibility case is filed when there is no dispute as to paternity and retroactive child support is not needed or appropriate. We can help to facilitate the paternity/Allocation of Parental Responsibility process, focusing on the best interests of children and parents who want to take an active role in their lives.

Focusing On the Security & Peace Of Mind Of Your Children

We are dedicated to educating our clients on the benefits of formal paternity and Allocation of Parental Responsibility agreements. Foregoing court involvement in favor of an informal agreement may work over the short term. However, should disputes arise in a verbal agreement, either side can change the terms of the informal agreement, potentially denying much-needed support for or access to the child.

A formal parental responsibility and/or paternity order provides protection and clarifies both parents' rights and responsibilities, including:

Decisions regarding education, health care, and religion
Determinations as to where the child will reside
Parenting time of the noncustodial parent
Child support agreements
Prevention of the relocation of the child out of state

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Why Choose Us

Versatile Representation Style
We're here to convey your story while protecting and fighting for your best interests.
Big Firm Experience, Boutique Firm Attention
We're here to guide you through every step of the legal process with a plan personalized to your specific needs promptly.
Cost-Effective Solutions
We have 2 LLPs (Licensed Legal Professionals) on our team who offer services at a lower cost increasing access to legal services. LLPs provide a more economical option for handling various legal matters.

Let Our Centennial Attorneys Answer Your Questions

We understand that these issues are often confusing and stressful. When you need help answering your questions or walking you through your options, we can help. For more information on paternity or allocation of parental responsibility, schedule a free consultation via our online intake form or by calling (303) 647-4245.

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"One of the best"
Krista Beauchamp and her Associates helped me through the probate and estate planning process during one of the worst times of my life. I highly recommend them as one of the best Probate and Estate Planning Law Firms.

- Cynthia D.
"Very satisfied with his services."
Kevin Murphy is a reliable lawyer. He understands the law and worked diligently on my case. I felt comfortable with decisions that were made, and Kevin always kept me updated on a regular basis. He responded promptly to my calls and emails; and he made me feel comfortable and secure during a child custody process that is, in most cases, stressful. I would definitely recommend Kevin Murphy for all Family and child custody cases.

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"Absolutely wonderful"
I sought legal counsel after needing to renegotiate custody and child support after 4 years of divorce. I was referred to this law firm by a friend and became partnered with Megan and her team. They were absolutely wonderful throughout the entire process providing timely communication and updates, reassurances as the process unfolded and sound legal counsel. I would highly recommend them! This was one of the best decisions I've ever made and feel blessed to have had them with me through this stressful time.

- Maria S.
"They made the process smooth and painless as it could be."
Megan and Christian were so helpful with my case. They were timely in responses and listened to all my concerns. They made the process smooth and painless as it could be. Thanks so much! Highly recommend.

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"Mr.murphy is truly a subject matter expert."
Kevin D Murphy was my lawyer for my divorce which was very very complicated and multifaceted more so than your average divorce. He is very professional and is able to break down complicated legal jargon into a single comprehensible format. Mr. Murphy always showed up on time and professionally dressed. He always kept me updated me as soon as he got new information in the divorce. A divorce is a very long and stressful ordeal. Mr. Murphy took the stress out of the entire situation and had my back at every point in the divorce. I was able to call and or email him 24-7 365 with any questions comments or concerns always promptly replied to the phone call or email with all the information I needed and then some. Mr. Murphy was an advocate for me and my children and facilitated the best possible outcome of the divorce. Mr. Murphy sent me a well documented monthly invoice with all of the fees associated which always checked out. He was worth every penny, and also is a pleasure to be around he's very charismatic and very experienced. To list a few of the items that Mr Murphy did are as follows.

1. He sat down with me and took the time to establish my sworn financial statement that a corporate accountant could go through with a fine-tooth comb.
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These are just some of the skills that mr. Murph has. His attention to detail is amazing he caught things that I totally missed. If you are going through a divorce I would personally and only recommend Kevin D Murphy he is a multi-tasker extraordinaire and truly a subject matter expert at what he does. He has improved me and my children's quality of life significantly and alleviated the stress out of the whole entire situation.

- Anonymous
"Great Attorney"
Kevin is a very knowledgeable attorney that always keeps his clients informed. He knows how important these legal issues are to his clients and is a wonderful advocate. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney.

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