If you’re a teenager and you’ve just been informed that you’re a father, a thousand different thoughts and emotions are likely swirling through your mind. That’s understandable – parenthood is a big responsibility. However, before you panic there are some things you should know about Florida law and the process of hiring a family law attorney in Miami.

First Steps

The first thing you should do when you’re notified that you’re a father is to request a DNA test. Never sign any documents that make claims about paternity until you know for certain that the child is truly yours. If you’re concerned about the process or the financial side, don’t be. The test is absolutely painless for the child and can be processed for around $175. You can even receive assistance from a family law attorney in Miami if you’re confused about the request filing process.

What the Law Says

Under Florida law, there is no preferential treatment given to either parent. In other words, the law doesn’t favor moms over dads or the other way around. That means the law is already on your side to begin with. However, the law also says that if your child receives any kind of government benefits, you’re responsible for child support. In fact, a child support case will be opened against you in the event that your child receives benefits even if the mom doesn’t want a case to be opened. If that’s not enough, you owe child support that extends into the past to the day your child was born. This kind of retroactive child support is called back support, and it’s a permanent debt that can’t be erased through bankruptcy or other means. That means you’ll walk into court already owing money.

What Can You Do?

Owing back support is more than an inconvenience. In fact, child support debt can ruin your chance of obtaining a loan, a car, and even a job in some cases. Since the debt is permanent, filing for bankruptcy will not alleviate it. So what can you do? Fortunately, there are legal recourses you can take with the help of a reputable family law attorney in Miami such as the professionals at DADVOCACY.  This is not a legal battle you want to fight on your own. The legal system is complex, and while it helps that Florida has no bias for either parent it’s still a complicated road to success when you head into the courtroom.

Hiring a family law attorney means you’re walking into court with a legal expert at your side who knows how to handle the situation and can help you achieve the most desirable and beneficial result. Not only are you protecting yourself, but you’re also protecting your child. Fighting for your rights doesn’t mean you’re trying to escape the responsibility of fatherhood, it is a fighting chance to live a life not burdened by financial hardship.

If you’re a teenager and you’ve been told you’re a father, contact the highly reputable and experienced child support lawyers in Miami  at Dadvocacy Law Firm. A firm dedicated to family law – fighting on kids’ behalf. To learn more please contact Dadvocacy at 305.371.7640 to schedule a consultation or visit www.Dadvocacy.com for further information.