Osceola County Paternity Lawyer
Establishing legal rights for you and your child.
Protecting Your Parental Rights in Kissimmee
In Florida, when a child is born to unmarried parents, the biological father does not automatically have legal rights to timesharing (custody) or decision-making—even if he is listed on the birth certificate. Conversely, a mother cannot enforce child support until paternity is legally established.
Attorney Joseph R. Greschner helps both mothers and fathers navigate the Florida family court system to legally establish paternity, secure financial support, and put a fair, enforceable parenting plan in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I establish paternity in Florida?
Paternity can be established by mutual agreement through a voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity, or by filing a civil action in court which may involve a genetic DNA test.
Does signing the birth certificate give the father legal custody rights?
No. For unmarried parents, signing the birth certificate establishes biological paternity, but the mother retains sole legal custody and timesharing until a court formally orders a parenting plan.
Can a mother refuse a DNA test?
If a father files a formal paternity action in court, the judge can order a mandatory DNA test. A mother cannot legally refuse a court-ordered genetic test.
What are the benefits of establishing paternity?
It allows the mother to seek child support and health insurance. For the father, it grants legal rights to timesharing, visitation, and a say in major decisions like education and healthcare. For the child, it provides access to medical history, inheritance, and benefits.
Can a mother get retroactive child support?
Yes. In Florida, once paternity is established, the court can award retroactive child support for up to 24 months prior to the date the paternity petition was filed.
Can a father’s name be added to the birth certificate later?
Yes. Once paternity is legally established through a court order or a formal Acknowledgment of Paternity, the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics can amend the birth certificate to include the father’s name.
Can paternity be revoked if I find out I am not the biological father?
Yes, Florida law allows a man to file a petition to “disestablish” paternity and terminate child support obligations if newly discovered evidence (like a DNA test) proves he is not the biological father, provided certain strict legal conditions are met.
Discuss Your Case
When you retain Greschner Law, you get the benefit of a dedicated legal team. My experienced staff and I work together to move your case forward efficiently.
I am personally involved in every case strategy, and clients receive my personal email and direct cell phone number.
Call (407) 846-7889 Email Joe Directly
Joseph R. Greschner, Esq.
Joseph Greschner attended Barry University School of Law at night while working fulltime. After graduation, Joseph passed the Florida Bar Exam and handles family law as well as personal injury cases.
Joseph takes great pride in handling each client’s legal matters with personal care and concern. When you sign with Greschner Law, Joseph will share his cell phone number and email address. He will welcome every opportunity to work directly with you. Don’t be surprised if you call Greschner Law and Joseph picks up the phone himself!
Member of the Florida Bar, Osceola Bar, Orange County Bar, and Chamber of Commerce.
The process of divorce does not have to be stressful or contentious. I will work with you to focus on your goals while advising you on what’s realistic and in your best interest.
—Joseph Greschner
Clients get Joseph’s cell phone number and direct email.
Payment plans available
Credit cards accepted
Located in Kissimmee’s Historic Courthouse district.