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Paternity Suits

Did you know in Florida, when a child is born out of wedlock, the father has NO rights to timesharing until paternity is established?

Just because your name is on the child’s birth certificate does NOT mean that paternity has been established. The signing of a birth certificate merely establishes a presumption that you are the father. 

How do I establish paternity?

In Florida, paternity is established in one of two ways:

  • You are married and a child is born during the marriage.
  • You file an action to establish paternity and the Court decides 
  • Section 742.10 of the Florida Statutes states that if you and the mother execute an affidavit, a notarized voluntary acknowledgment of paternity, or a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity that is witnessed by two individuals and signed under penalty of perjury, in accordance with Section 382.013, that is sufficient to establish paternity.   Either party can rescind this document within 60 days of execution. However, after those 60 days, this document cannot be challenged except on the basis of fraud, duress, or material mistake of fact, with the burden of proof upon the challenger. Judicial or administrative proceedings are not required or permitted to ratify an unchallenged acknowledgment of paternity
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Paternity Lawyer in Boca Raton

Who can file a paternity lawsuit?

Under Florida law, a paternity suit can be brought by (1) the child’s mother, (2) the man who believes he is the father of the child, (3) the child through a legal representative or (4) the Florida Department of Child Support Services. Pursuant to Fla. Stat. 742.011, “Any woman who is pregnant or has a child, any man who has reason to believe that he is the father of a child, or any child may bring proceedings in the circuit court, in chancery, to determine the paternity of the child when paternity has not been established by law or otherwise.”

  • Usually, a father files an action to establish paternity when he is being denied timesharing with the child. The father is looking to establish paternity and obtain a parenting plan that affords him timesharing with the child.
  • Usually, the mother files an action to establish paternity when the father does not pay child support. The mother then needs to establish paternity and obtain a child support order from the court.

Why Hire the Horton Law Group, P.A?

The outcome of your case ultimately depends on who you chose to represent you. The principal partner at the Horton Law Group, P.A., Attorney Sommer C. Horton, is an experienced and aggressive litigator. She is highly regarded for her creativeness, strategic judgment, and her uncanny ability to deliver persuasive legal arguments in the courtroom. She has a tremendous skill for being an aggressive advocate for her clients, while being one who understands and appreciates how trying litigation can be, thus, she is extremely sensitive to her clients’ needs. Ms. Horton is passionate about the law and believes in seeking justice for her clients in an ethical and economic manner. Ms. Horton fights for each one of her clients, every step of the way. If the case cannot be settled out of court, Ms. Horton will be litigating your case at trial.

The Horton Law Group, P.A. is a boutique civil litigation law firm that only takes on a limited number of cases so that personal attention can be given to every client. Make the right call – schedule a free 30-minute consultation with Ms. Horton. You can make an appointment by calling 561-299-0018 or emailing marketingdirector@hortonlawgroup.com.

Common Questions About Paternity Suits

How Do I Establish Paternity?

  • To establish paternity, one must file a Petition to Establish Paternity with the court.
  • To have standing to file a paternity action, you must be a resident of Florida for at least 6 months.
  • Paternity can be established through DNA testing or a stipulation between the parties, of which will result in an order establishing paternity.
  • You must allege specific facts within your petition to establish paternity.  Failure to do so may result in your action being dismissed.
  • In the Petition, you should also as the court to establish child support and a timesharing schedule.

Can the court order child support?

  • The answer is YES.  The court is required to implement child support guidelines.
  • The mother can ever request prior child support going back 24 months from the date the petition was filed.
  • Child support is determined by the Child Support Guidelines of Florida under Fla. Stat. 61.30. For example if there is a net income to determine minimum child support of $800.00 income then one child’s support would be $190 per month. Each parent’s support will be different depending on their monthly net income.

What type of timesharing am I entitled to?

It depends on the facts of your case.  Barring any extraordinary circumstance, Florida law makes clear that both parents should have frequent and continuous contact with the children.  There are many different parenting plans.

Can someone adopt my child, without my consent, if paternity is not established?

The answer is YES.   It is critical that you register with the Florida Putative Father Registry with the Office of Vital Statistics, so they know you may be the father of a child in Florida and you should file an action to establish paternity.

If I Find Out That My Child Is Not My Child, Can I Disestablish My Paternity?

Yes – but the process is complex.  In Florida, to disestablish paternity, you must file a Petition to Disestablish Paternity with the court.  The disestablish petition must strictly comply Florida Statute 742.18Otherwise, it will be denied.

What if I have a baby with a woman who is married to someone else?

The “marital presumption” provides that any child born to an intact marriage shall be deemed the child of that father. That way, no man could ever deny a child was his. The marital presumption still holds strong in Florida and it is very difficult to overcome. A man can swear up and down he hasn’t seen his wife in years. It doesn’t matter. That child is presumed his until proven otherwise.

These types of cases present various complex issues.  You should contact the Horton Law Group, P.A. to schedule your free consultation.

How long does a paternity action take?

Paternity actions follow the same procedure as dissolution of marriage proceedings with the exception that there is no alimony or equitable division of martial assets.  The process is more of less:

  • File the petition and various other required documentation
  • Have the respondent served with process
  • The respondent then has 20 days to file a responsive pleading
  • Both parties have to comply with Mandatory Disclosure within 45 days
  • Both parties can engage in discovery, depositions and issue subpoenas.
  • Both parties can retain experts
  • Both parties are required to attend mediation.
  • If the case cannot resolve itself at mediation, a trial date will be set and a court will render rulings on all issues in your case.

Paternity actions can take between 12 – 24 months, if they are contested. If they are not contested, they usually take about 6 months.

How much does a paternity action cost?

The cost of the case depends on whether paternity is contested.  Paternity actions can be expensive. Especially, if there are allegations of child abuse.  If there are such allegations and experts are required, the cost will increase.  If one party is hiding their income or assets in an effort to avoid paying child support, the cost will increase as a forensic accountant may be required to determine the true financials of the parties.

Regardless if experts are involved, you need to keep in mind that this is your child and we are firm believers that it will benefit you and your family to retain quality counsel to represent you from the beginning to ensure your rights and the rights of your child or children are protected.

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Recently, I acquired my first home! I retained Ms. Horton to help me file Homestead for my property. I was unsure whether to put my Homestead property in my Revocable Trust – she provided me the benefits and consequences of doing so in a way that I actually understood. I trust her judgment. She was very patient and very sensitive to my needs. I look forward to working with her again in the future.

Joseph F., Client

Ms. Horton represented me during my divorce. She was the best. Very sharp! Very skilled! She was attentive to my needs and was prompt in her responses back to all of my calls and emails. If you are looking for an attorney who will actually represent you and listen to what it is that you want, then you need to call Attorney Sommer Horton. She made this process very easy for me. When I had her in my corner, I was not stressed because I knew she was taking good care of me. I highly recommend the Horton Law Group.

Victoria R., Client

Ms. Horton represented me in a highly contested family litigation case and two other litigation matters. She was extremely attentive to my needs and incredibly aggressive in the courtroom. Litigation went on for over 2 years and she was there for me each and every time I needed her. She was always prepared for hearings. She won most if not all of them. There were boxes and boxes of exhibits that she used at the three day trial in this matter. During trial, Ms. Horton was calm, cool and collected. She did an amazing job with the many experts in this case. She destroyed the opposing party at trial. I felt very relieved and at ease with Mr. Horton in my corner. If you need a family law attorney and/or a trial attorney for that matter – call Attorney Sommer Horton. She is the best of the best. I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of a brilliant and aggressive attorney.

Daria P., Client

I would strongly recommend Horton Law Group. The whole staff was helpful and courteous every time I was there. Ms. Horton is an excellent attorney. She handled my case professionally and resolved my issue with a favorable result for me. I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of an exemplary attorney.

Thomas N., Client

An issue came up and I called the Horton law group… I’m so lucky that I did. Sommer handled it with ease. She is attentive, assertive, and a bull dog! If you need something big or small handled or if you need good legal advice don’t hesitate! It would be a mistake not to call.

John B., Client

Sommer was simply brilliant and amazing with representing us but also very patient and understanding In her handling of the anixiety we were feeling. It was nice to have someone by our side and I could not have done this without her.

Glenn A., Client

The Horton law group provided me a great service. I’m very pleased with them.

Maria O., Client

Sommer Horton represented my Stepmother wonderfully. We were in an emergency situation involving my father’s trust. We were helped every step of the way. She was upfront and honest with us throughout. Sommer and her staff were very friendly and quick to respond to any questions we had. Sommer is an outstanding attorney who diligently advocated on our behalf. I highly recommend her.

Margaret S., Client

My introduction to Sommer Horton has been a privileged experience! She is nothing short of an amazing attorney, always having your back with outstanding results. We met years ago under sad circumstances when I lost a parent and since then, Sommer has handled our life…. the good, the bad and the ugly. If Sommer has the time to handle your case, you are guaranteed to be in the best of hands!

Tami D., Client

Sommer Horton is a top-notch attorney. She’s my go-to lawyer for family issues, estate planning, or any time I have a legal issue or question. She and her staff are responsive, attentive, and they get results. I highly recommend Horton Law Group.

Gayle D., Client

Recently Sommer Horton Represented my brother and I in a probate matter and she did an awesome job. Our case was very difficult and she was extremely patient and when it was neccessary she aggresively took action. I would recommend her services and use her again. The entire staff was very helpful.

Melissa H., Client

Ms. Horton represented me in Guardianship case. It lasted several years. She kept me informed, never missed a deadline and was sensitive to my needs as it came to legal fees and costs. She was worth every penny spent on legal fees. I hope I don’t ever need legal counsel in the future, but if I do, Mr. Horton is the only lawyer I will call. Ms. Horton and her legal team are top notch professionals. I highly recommend the Horton Law Group.

Deborah B., Client

Ms. Horton represented me in a highly contested family litigation case and two other litigation matters. She was extremely attentive to my needs and incredibly aggressive in the courtroom. Litigation went on for over 2 years and she was there for me each and every time I needed her. She was always prepared for hearings. She won most if not all of them. There were boxes and boxes of exhibits that she used at the three day trial in this matter. During trial, Ms. Horton was calm, cool and collected. She did an amazing job with the many experts in this case. She destroyed the opposing party at trial. I felt very relieved and at ease with Mr. Horton in my corner. If you need a family law attorney and/or a trial attorney for that matter – call Attorney Sommer Horton. She is the best of the best. I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of a brilliant and aggressive attorney.

Daria F., Client

Sommer Horton is professional, timely, and always available to assist with any questions. She doesn’t waste my time and keeps things efficient. Never a doubt things are being handled correctly!

Victoria C., Client

Sommer is incredible! She and her team greatly helped my family and I. She is extremely driven and I could not believe how hard she worked. I highly recommend her!

Lucas A., Client

I have had the privilege of working together with Sommer on several matters. She is extremely focused and detail oriented. She seems to shine in every situation. Highly recommended.

Johny L., Client

Ms. Horton and her team are professional, courteous, honest and diligent. Their knowledge of the law and ability to look at all solutions made all the difference in my case. Their personal approach made me feel like was their only client. They were always available and always positioning my case towards a positive result. I recommend the Horton Law Group to any person looking for fair and comprehensive representation.

David C., Client

I am completely satisfied with Ms. Sommer Horton, Esq. as my attorney, and for her law firm, the Horton Law Group, P.A. for their outstanding service and customer care. I highly recommend Ms. Horton as an attorney in Florida and her law firm. Ms. Horton and her staff are efficient and professional with understanding my case and not wasting any of my time or resources. Ms. Horton always promptly answers my calls and questions, and makes sure that I can review all work, and she helps me make timely decisions for my case. Ms. Horton and her staff are always courteous and prepared for my case in and out of court and I have been relieved by her as a

Stephen W., Client

Sommer is very professional and dedicated with her client care. She is a beast in court, extremely fierce. She keeps the line of communication open and is very detailed with her explanations. Anytime I need to use an attorney, you can be sure I will call Sommer.

Scott B., Client

Let me start by saying, I have had Sommer represent me in several litigations. She has always been very dependable and honest about how she would handle my particular situations. Her dedication to my cases, even the small ones has always impressed me. Sommer is what I would describe as someone you always want on your side. She is tenacious in getting things done, on time and with as much success as she promised. I would highly recommend her for litigation cases as well as estate planning. I can only say again if you have Sommer you have one of the best to represent you.

Bill M., Client

Sommer is a wonderful attorney, she’s the type of attorney that everyone wishes for, she’s dedicated, fierce, loyal to her clients and ensures that every option is explored to find the absolute best possible situation and outcome. Her attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond is what truly separates Sommer from the rest. I’m glad I found her and would definitely recommend to anyone that needs her services.

James G., Client

Very professional and reliable Sommer and the Horton Law Group provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to any of my questions regarding a recent legal dispute. Ms. Horton provided me with excellent legal advice. She took the time to explain everything clearly to me. I found her to be reliable, courteous and professional. I highly recommend her without any reservations.

Barbara D., Client

Ms. Horton took care of every detail regarding my case in a timely manner, strongly suggest!

Kelly F., Client

I am completely satisfied with Ms. Sommer Horton, Esq. as my attorney, and for her law firm, the Horton Law Group, P.A. for their outstanding service and customer care. I highly recommend Ms. Horton as an attorney in Florida and her law firm. Ms. Horton and her staff are efficient and professional with understanding my case and not wasting any of my time or resources. Ms. Horton always promptly answers my calls and questions, and makes sure that I can review all work, and she helps me make timely decisions for my case. Ms. Horton and her staff are always courteous and prepared for my case in and out of court and I have been relieved by her as a trusted professional to ensure that my case is grounded in legal case law, Florida statutes, and working to come up with the best solutions for me.

Stephen M., Client

Sommer and the Horton Law Group provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to any of my questions regarding a recent legal dispute. Ms. Horton provided me with excellent legal advice. She took the time to explain everything clearly to me. I found her to be reliable, courteous and professional. I highly recommend her without any reservations.

Barbara P., Client

Sommer Horton is the best attorney I’ve ever used. She is aggressive and gets the job done, but she cares about her clients. Her office is friendly and responsive, and she’s always there to answer any questions I have.

Gayle M., Client

Ms Horton handled my labor case and it was quickly resolved. She was well versed with the legalities of my case and advised me that it would be favorably resolved. Once she the information from me about the case and sent a demand letter, the other party settled within days. She did a great job for me

Raffaele B., Client

Sommer advised me on estate planing, she also made it easy to draw up a will. She is a one of a kind attorney that cares about clients need.

Joseph F., Client

Ms. Horton is a fabulous divorce attorney. She is affordable, aggressive and will fight for you. I would strongly recommend you to call her. She I creative and she is also very easy to talk to, she understands what you are going through and she will be there for you.

Giancarlo M., Client

Sommer worked with my on my trust and other legal documents. I recently had to meet with her again to update them. I feel comfortable that I am in good hands with her knowledge and detail. I would highly recommend her firm

K. U., Client

Ms. Horton represented me in Guardianship case. It lasted several years. She kept me informed, never missed a deadline and was sensitive to my needs as it came to legal fees and costs. She was worth every penny spent on legal fees. I hope I don’t ever need legal counsel in the future, but if I do, Mr. Horton is the only lawyer I will call. Ms. Horton and her legal team are top notch professionals. I highly recommend the Horton Law Group.

Deborah B., Client

Ms. Horton represented me in a highly contested family litigation case and two other litigation matters. She was extremely attentive to my needs and incredibly aggressive in the courtroom. Litigation went on for over 2 years and she was there for me each and every time I needed her. She was always prepared for hearings. She won most if not all of them. There were boxes and boxes of exhibits that she used at the three day trial in this matter. During trial, Ms. Horton was calm, cool and collected. She did an amazing job with the many experts in this case. She destroyed the opposing party at trial. I felt very relieved and at ease with Mr. Horton in my corner. If you need a family law attorney and/or a trial attorney for that matter – call Attorney Sommer Horton. She is the best of the best. I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of a brilliant and aggressive attorney.

Daria F., Client

I came to the law group with a problem from years ago… all I can say is that Sommer is amazing! Her staff is outstanding.. Sommer is such a bulldog and fought hard for me.. I’m so lucky I made the right choice. If you have legal problems or need legal advice call the Horton Law Group. You will be glad you did.
I came to the law group with a problem from years ago… all I can say is that Sommer is amazing! Her staff is outstanding.. Sommer is such a bulldog and fought hard for me.. I’m so lucky I made the right choice. If you have legal problems or need legal advice call the Horton Law Group. You will be glad you did.

John B., Client

Sommer Horton has been a professional in all my dealings with her. She is professional, courteous, and detail focused.

Scott S., Client

Highly recommend ! She was very professional and helpful , you won’t be dissapointed . Her attention to detail is impressive.

Hannah C., Client

Ms. Horton helped me with my estate planning. She was very patient and attentive to our current and future needs. She will always look out for you and keep your best interests intact. I highly recommend her for any legal needs you may have!

Jenifer P., Client

Very professional and reliabe
Sommer and the Horton Law Group provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to any of my questions regarding a recent legal dispute.
Ms. Horton provided me with excellent legal advice. She took the time to explain everything clearly to me. I found her to be reliable, courteous and professional. I highly recommend her without any reservations.

Barbara C., Client

Let me start by saying, I have had Sommer represent me in several litigations. She has always been very dependable and honest about how she would handle my particular situations. Her dedication to my cases, even the small ones has always impressed me. Sommer is what I would describe as someone you always want on your side. She is tenacious in getting things done, on time and with as much success as she promised. I would highly recommend her for litigation cases as well as estate planning. I can only say again if you have Sommer you have one of the best to represent you.

Bill M., Client

I am completely satisfied with Ms. Sommer Horton, Esq. as my attorney, and for her law firm, the Horton Law Group, P.A. for their outstanding service and customer care. I highly recommend Ms. Horton as an attorney in Florida and her law firm. Ms. Horton and her staff are efficient and professional with understanding my case and not wasting any of my time or resources. Ms. Horton always promptly answers my calls and questions, and makes sure that I can review all work, and she helps me make timely decisions for my case. Ms. Horton and her staff are always courteous and prepared for my case in and out of court and I have been relieved by her as a trusted professional to ensure that my case is grounded in legal case law, Florida statutes, and working to come up with the best solutions for me.

Stephen W., Client

Sommer is a wonderful attorney, she’s the type of attorney that everyone wishes for, she’s dedicated, fierce, loyal to her clients and ensures that every option is explored to find the absolute best possible situation and outcome. Her attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond is what truly separates Sommer from the rest. I’m glad I found her and would definitely recommend to anyone that needs her services.

James G., Client

Sommer Horton has served as our general corporate counsel for the past several years.  She aggressively defended us in a frivolous lawsuit filed against us and won!   She has also represented us on several other corporate matters.  She has handled all of our business needs with great success. She is professional, dedicated and has a keen attention to detail. I fully and confidently recommend Sommer Horton and the Horton Law Group, P.A. for all of your professional and business needs.

Juan C., Client

I was looking for a great lawyer to be on my side on a lawsuit and I was very lucky to find Summer. Not only is she extremely responsive to any questions I had, but she had the ability to understand my needs. From day one, she advised me on the best route to take and explained in detail what to expect and the potential problems that might be on the horizon. Sommer is someone I trust to handle any future claim and I definitely want her on my side. Needless to say…we won the case she represented us in.  She is top notch.

Annette L., Client

Horton Law Group represented me better than I could have ever imagined. My needs were put first and I was treated as a friend rather than a number.   My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured.  My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained.   My attorney, Sommer Horton, fought hard for me.   She went above and beyond and did everything she could to ensure a great outcome.  I couldn’t have asked for a better law firm or attorney. Thanks guys!!!

Barbara C., Client

I have known Sommer Horton for years.  I recently utilized her services to draft my family estate plans.  I was blown away with her knowledge of the law.  She explained the importance of each document in a way that I understood why I needed my estate plan.  She is affordable and efficient.  In fact, she is wonderful!  Ms. Horton really does care and she will make sure you, your family and your asserts are protected.   My recommendation would be that you call her if you need legal help.  She will take good care of you.

Madi P., Client

I retained Sommer Horton from the Horton Law Group to represent me in a trust litigation lawsuit. We successfully had the successor trustees removed and me appointed to serve as the current trustee of the trust. I find Ms. Horton to be very knowledgeable with the laws. Every strategic move she made in the case, she had me approve first. She copied me on all communications with the other parties counsel so I always knew what was happening in my case. I am extremely satisfied with her work and I am extremely satisfied with all of her staff. She has a great team. They were always very nice and got me what I wanted in a timely manner. We are in the final stages of litigation and I am 100% satisfied with how she got the case to this point. I would definitely hire Attorney Sommer Horton again should I ever need an attorney again. I found her rates to be fair for the work she did for me. She is worth it.

Levance "Lee" B., Client

Ms. Horton and her entire team at Horton Law Group have been a life saver while going through an extremely contentious and difficult divorce. Ms Horton has fought for my children and me at every step. She is straightforward, diligent, realistic and someone you can trust. Thank you Sommer, Teresa, and the whole team!

Audrey M., Client

Over the past decade, Sommer Horton and her team at the Horton Law Group have treated me like family and have helped me through multiple legal matters. The entire team has always communicated quickly and efficiently while taking the time to help me thoroughly understand even the most complex legal jargon. They’ve consistently shown empathy and have always made time for me and my family through the process. Sommer Horton is Simply the Best. THANK YOU HORTON LAW GROUP!

Rick R., Client

It is not often that I take the time to compliment a Professional that I felt it was their job to do well to begin with. However, it was a pleasant surprise to deal with someone who went far beyond my expectations and performed as well as you in preparing my Estate Planning. I also appreciate that your billing was as reasonable as it was. Most people expect that “sticker shock” when dealing with Lawyers and Accountants. I found that your knowledge of Finances made it unnecessary for me to incur any further expense for accounting.
Thanks for the great job that you and your staff did.

Ralph B., Client

Serving as a Successor Trustee with several litigation cases pending, having an attorney working diligently for your client is of utmost importance. Sommer Horton was that attorney. Regardless of the nature of the situation, Sommer was there to support and advise not only my client, but myself as well. She and her team worked meticulously to delve into the issues so that our client’s interest was best represented. Her efforts were rewarded with favorable outcomes for our client, that is what we call a win, win. Sommer Horton and the Horton Law Group, P.A. were amazing, I highly recommend them.

Marline L., Client

I have worked with Sommer from Horton law group on several occasions over the past 7 years. She strikes the right balance between aggressive and realistic. Sommer is knowledgeable, confident and unflappable. The perfect team to walk with you through difficult circumstances.

Margarita K, Client
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