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Establishing Paternity and Securing Child Support in Illinois

Establishing paternity and ensuring child support are crucial legal matters that have a significant impact on the well-being of both children and parents. In Illinois, there are specific guidelines and procedures in place to determine paternity and enforce child support obligations.

Establishing Paternity in Illinois

Paternity refers to the legal identification of a child’s biological father. In Illinois, paternity can be established through the following methods:

  • Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP): This is the simplest and most common way to establish paternity. Both the mother and alleged father sign a legal document, the VAP, acknowledging that the man is the biological father of the child. This document is typically completed at the hospital when the child is born, but it can also be signed later.
  • Court Order: If there is a dispute or disagreement regarding paternity, either the mother, father, or child may file a petition with the court to establish paternity. The court may order genetic testing to determine the biological relationship between the alleged father and the child. Once paternity is established, the court can issue an order outlining parental rights and responsibilities.

Paternity and Child Support in Illinois

Paternity plays a significant role in child support proceedings. When paternity is established, the non-custodial parent, typically the father, becomes legally obligated to provide financial support for the child. In Illinois, child support is determined based on the “Income Shares” model. This model takes into account both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and the parenting time allocated to each parent. If the non-custodial parent fails to pay child support, the custodial parent can seek enforcement through various means, including income withholding orders, intercepting tax refunds, suspending driver’s licenses, and placing liens on the property.

Statute of Limitations for Child Support in Illinois

The statute of limitations refers to the time limit within which a legal action must be initiated. In Illinois, there is no statute of limitations for child support. This means that a parent can seek child support at any time, even if the child is now an adult. However, it is crucial to promptly initiate the legal process to ensure the timely collection of child support.

Glasgow & Olsson: Assisting Parents with Paternity and Child Support Matters

When it comes to navigating the complexities of establishing paternity and securing child support, seeking the guidance of experienced attorneys is essential. Establishing paternity and securing child support are vital steps in ensuring the well-being and financial stability of children in Illinois. By understanding the process of establishing paternity, the relationship between paternity and child support, the statute of limitations for child support, and the role of experienced attorneys like those at Glasgow & Olsson, parents can navigate these legal matters with confidence. Remember, seeking legal assistance early on is crucial in protecting your rights and the best interests of your child.

If you are a parent in need of assistance when establishing paternity and obtaining child support from the non-custodial parent, contact the Glasgow & Olsson Law Firm. We want to assist you in this difficult time by ensuring your rights and the rights of the children involved are protected. When you need an attorney, experience matters. Contact us now for a confidential and comprehensive consultation.