Family law · Paternity
Establishing paternity, and the rights that come with it
Paternity is emotional for everyone involved. We handle it in a safe, matter-of-fact way.
A steady hand on a sensitive matter
Paternity questions leave both mothers and fathers raw. We keep the environment safe and understanding while we work the legal process.
Attorney Brittany Klaus Crothers has 17+ years of experience with paternity, child support, custody and visitation across southeastern Wisconsin.
What paternity means legally
Paternity is the legal determination of fatherhood, and it matters in both directions.
It gives a father legal rights, including the ability to seek custody and parenting time. It also secures the child's access to child support, health insurance and inheritance rights. Without legal recognition, a father can struggle to assert any of it.
How to establish paternity in Wisconsin
Wisconsin automatically assumes maternity. Paternity has to be established, unless the father signs the child's birth certificate.
If both parents agree, they can sign a Voluntary Paternity Acknowledgment form. If they do not agree, a court order is required. The steps are:
- File a petition: either parent can file with the court to start the case
- Genetic testing: the court typically orders testing to confirm the biological relationship
- Court hearing: the court reviews the evidence, including the test results
- Paternity order: if paternity is confirmed, the court issues an order establishing rights and responsibilities
Do I need a paternity lawyer?
An attorney handles the paperwork, files it in the right place and keeps procedural errors from derailing your case.
Just as importantly, we understand what is emotionally at stake here and work to protect your rights without inflaming the situation further.
Discuss paternity today
Call 414-519-6255 or send a message to schedule your free, confidential consultation.