Contested Paternity Starter
Establish paternity, custody, and support when parents disagree
About This Service
Everything you need to initiate a contested paternity action. We prepare and file your petition to establish paternity, custody, and child support, coordinate service, and prepare your mandatory disclosures. Essential for unmarried parents who can't agree.
What's Included
Ideal For
- Unmarried parents with custody disputes
- Fathers seeking to establish legal rights
- Mothers seeking child support orders
- Cases where parents can't agree on custody or support
This Service May Not Be Right If...
- →Parents who agree on all terms (see individual paternity services)
Common Questions
Do I need a DNA test?
If the father is on the birth certificate or acknowledges paternity, no test is needed. If paternity is disputed, the court can order DNA testing.
What's the difference between paternity and divorce?
Paternity cases are for unmarried parents. They establish legal parentage, custody, and support—but don't involve property division or alimony.
Does this include court appearances?
No. This package covers filing and mandatory disclosures only. Court appearances, motions, and hearings are available as separate services.
+ $36.01 processing fee
Not included: Court filing fees ($300-$410 depending on case type and county, plus a ~4% statutory convenience fee for card payments), process server fees, notary fees, and other third-party costs are paid separately and are not included in this price.
A payment processing fee (2.9% + $0.30) will be added at checkout as a separate line item.
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