Juvenile Paternity

Juvenile Paternity Attorney in Evansville, IN

Establishing Legal Paternity to Protect Parental Rights and Support Children’s Futures

Establishing paternity is a critical step in protecting the legal rights of both parents and ensuring that children receive the support and care they deserve. In Indiana, if a child is born to unmarried parents, paternity must be established before the court can issue orders for child support, custody, or visitation.



At the law office of John Andrew Goodridge, we help parents and guardians throughout Evansville and surrounding areas with all aspects of juvenile paternity cases. With more than 30 years of experience in Indiana family law, we provide clear, effective guidance through the legal process—whether you are seeking to establish paternity or responding to a court action.

Why Establishing Paternity Matters

Paternity is the legal recognition of a father’s relationship to a child. Once paternity is established, the father gains rights and responsibilities, including:

  • The right to pursue custody or visitation
  • The obligation to provide financial support
  • The ability to make medical, educational, and legal decisions for the child
  • Inclusion on the child’s birth certificate
  • Eligibility for the child to receive inheritance, insurance, or benefits through the father


We help clients understand how paternity impacts family structure, financial obligations, and long-term planning for children’s futures.

Ways to Establish Paternity in Indiana

There are several legal ways to establish paternity:

  • Voluntary Acknowledgment – Both parents sign a paternity affidavit, typically at the hospital at the time of the child’s birth.
  • Court Order – Either parent may file a paternity action in family court to request genetic testing and legal determination.
  • Presumption of Paternity – In some cases, a man may be presumed to be the father under specific legal circumstances.


We represent both mothers and fathers in paternity actions and provide advocacy during related custody, parenting time, and child support proceedings.

Our Paternity Services Include:

  • Filing or responding to paternity petitions
  • DNA testing coordination and disputes
  • Custody and visitation requests following paternity
  • Child support establishment or enforcement
  • Modifying existing parenting or support orders
  • Representation in contested paternity cases


We understand that paternity actions can be emotional and complex, and we work with care to protect your child’s best interests while ensuring your legal rights are upheld.

Serving Families Throughout Southern Indiana

We help parents and guardians with paternity matters in Evansville, Boonville, Chandler, Cynthiana, Darmstadt, Fort Branch, Haubstadt, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Petersburg, Princeton, Poseyville, Rockport, Wadesville, and nearby communities. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.

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Need Legal Help?

Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation and get the experienced legal support you need.

Why Choose John Andrew Goodridge?

  • Over 30 years of legal experience
  • Proven track record in Indiana courts
  • Focused, personalized attention on every case
  • Clear communication and honest guidance
  • Trusted by clients across Evansville and surrounding areas
  • Strong trial experience and skilled negotiation
  • Committed to protecting your rights and best interests

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why would I need to establish paternity?

    Establishing paternity allows the court to issue orders for custody, visitation, and child support. It also protects your legal rights and your child’s future.

  • Can I request a DNA test?

    Yes. Either parent can request genetic testing as part of a paternity case. Courts may also order testing if paternity is disputed.

  • Does signing a birth certificate establish paternity?

    No. A father’s name on the birth certificate does not automatically create legal paternity. A paternity affidavit or court order is required.

  • What happens after paternity is established?

    The court can issue orders for custody, parenting time, child support, and other related matters to ensure the child’s needs are met.

  • Can paternity be contested or denied?

    Yes. A party may contest paternity, especially if there is uncertainty about biological parentage. We represent clients on both sides of these disputes.

Contact Us to Discuss Your Case

If you're facing a legal challenge, don’t navigate it alone. John Andrew Goodridge, Attorney at Law, is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the best possible outcome. We proudly serve clients in Evansville and surrounding areas, including Boonville, Chandler, Cynthiana, Darmstadt, Fort Branch, Haubstadt, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Petersburg, Princeton, Poseyville, Rockport, and Wadesville. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.