The Social Security system is in place to help us through difficult times. Unfortunately, there are some instances in which the system makes our lives even more difficult than they need to be. The day I received the denial letter for my claim, I wasn't sure what I was going to do. After talking with a few friends, I contacted a lawyer. That was the best decision I had ever made. Even with the professional assistance, getting the denial overturned and getting the money that I was owed took several months. I have kept a clear journal of my experience and loaded it with information that can help others get through what can be an impossible time.
-
Navigating The Realm Of Estate Planning Lawyers 23 February 2024
-
Signs that You Need a Vehicle Accident Claim Attorney 22 January 2024
-
Understanding Social Security Disability Lawyers 19 December 2023
Social security denial - a journal of assistance
Are You Sure That You're The Daddy?
Alexis Garcia
For many, finding out that you are about to be a father is a welcomed event. That happy feeling may not be quite as forthcoming, however, when it's unplanned, and the paternity is uncertain. If you are feeling compelled to do the honorable thing and take responsibility for that child, you might be making a big mistake. Read on to find out why accepting fatherhood without proof could come back to haunt you.
Should you agree to paternity?
The family courts don't have a big interest in finding the true biological father of a child; they just want to make sure that the child is cared for and provided for financially. Whoever steps forward and takes over the responsibility is more than welcome to it. Not only that, but if the real biological father is revealed (and it's not you), you may still be on the hook for 18 plus years of child support. The family court system takes the well being and best interests of the minor child so seriously that they might be reluctant to disturb a child support situation that has been working for the child up to now. If the biological father wants to take on the responsibility, then you may be able to pass the baton, but often the father is not available. The unavailability of the biological father is one of the prime reasons for the courts maintaining the status quo.
A Serious Responsibility
The courts do not mess around when it comes to this financial obligation. Once you agree to accept paternity, you will be expected to continue to pay until the child reaches age 18, and in some cases, that obligation extends until the child graduates college or age 24. The amount you will be ordered to pay is based on several factors, such as:
- your income
- the state median income
- whether or not you are also providing health insurance for the child
- and more.
More to Consider
Another issue is your relationship with the child. Being a father, or at least acting as father, is nothing to be taken lightly, and the financial responsibility is the least of it. That child could grow up knowing you as their father, and not only is that dishonest, but it is preventing the actual biological father from having a father-child relationship with them if they are willing.
Ask for Proof
If you really want to do the right thing, ask for DNA proof of paternity. Then, if you move forward with your plans to be a father to the child, you will do so with full knowledge of the situation. If this issue is rearing its head, speak to a family law attorney at once, and get proof of paternity no matter what before you take any action.
Share