Edmond Parental Rights Lawyers
Whether a father is looking to spend time with his child, or a mother is seeking the child support she needs and deserves, the issue of paternity is important from both a legal and humanitarian perspective. Our parental rights lawyers have over 15 years of experience helping clients resolve these issues and assert both their rights and responsibilities.
We work with parents in the Oklahoma City area and throughout Oklahoma County. Call our Edmond office at (405) 331-7884 or contact us online today.
Establishing Paternity in Oklahoma
Establishing paternity in Oklahoma is a legal process that identifies a child’s biological father. Oklahoma provides several ways to establish paternity:
- Marriage: If the child’s parents are married at the time of birth, the husband is presumed to be the father, and no further legal action is required unless contested.
- Voluntary acknowledgment: Both parents can sign an "Acknowledgment of Paternity" form at the hospital at the time of the child’s birth or later through the Oklahoma State Department of Health. This document legally establishes the father’s identity.
- Court order: If disputes arise, either parent may seek a court order to establish paternity. The court may require DNA testing to confirm the father's identity.
- Voluntary DNA testing: The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) helps in establishing paternity, typically through genetic testing, which either parent can request.
Once paternity is established, the father gains legal access to parental rights and responsibilities.
Honoring Families. Defending Futures.
What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?
At The Smith Firm, our work is guided by core values: integrity, compassion, and commitment. We believe in honest communication, dedicated advocacy, and treating every client with the respect they deserve. These principles shape how we approach every case, ensuring you feel supported and empowered throughout your legal journey.
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We'll Be Your Resource
Family law can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. We’re here to provide clear guidance, support, and answers every step of the way.
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Highly Rated by Former Clients
Our clients’ feedback speaks for itself—highlighting our commitment to responsive service, strong advocacy, and real results.
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Trusted by Thousands of Oklahomans
We’ve helped thousands of Oklahomans navigate family law challenges with personalized attention and dedicated advocacy.
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30+ Years of Dedicated Service
For over 30 years, we’ve provided steady legal support, using our experience to protect what matters most to Oklahoma families.
The Responsibilities of Parenthood in Oklahoma
With parental rights come significant legal and ethical responsibilities. Parents must meet obligations that include the following:
- Financial support: Parents are legally required to provide financial support for their child’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, and healthcare.
- Education: Parents must oversee or facilitate their child’s education. This includes ensuring attendance at school or providing valid homeschooling options that satisfy state requirements.
- Healthcare: Parents are expected to provide medical care for their children, including routine checkups and necessary treatments in case of illness or injury.
- Protection and safety: Parents have a duty to protect their children from harm, including abuse, neglect, or exposure to unsafe conditions.
- Compliance with court orders: Parents must abide by any court orders related to custody, visitation, or child support. Failing to do so may endanger their parental rights.
- Reporting abuse or neglect: Parents are obligated to report if their child is a victim of abuse or neglect and take immediate steps to secure their safety.
These responsibilities are not just legal obligations but moral imperatives, enabling children to receive the necessary care and resources to grow into healthy, responsible adults.
Call Our Parental Rights Lawyers Today
The team in our Edmond office is professionally responsive and has a firm grasp of the law and procedure in Oklahoma.
Call (405) 331-7884 today.