Paternity Rights Lawyer Wicomico County — Protecting Your Father’s Rights
Establishing paternity is the first step to securing your rights as a father in Wicomico County. Under Maryland law, a legal father gains rights to custody, visitation, and a voice in major decisions affecting the child. A paternity rights lawyer Wicomico County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Wicomico County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Paternity Law & Father’s Rights
Paternity in Maryland establishes the legal relationship between a father and his child. This is governed by Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 5-1001. Once paternity is established, a father gains the right to seek custody, visitation, and to participate in decisions about the child’s upbringing, education, and healthcare. It also establishes the father’s obligation to provide child support. Proceedings to establish paternity, custody, and support are filed at the District Court of MD for Wicomico County.
- Consult with a paternity rights lawyer Wicomico County to review your situation.
- File a Complaint to Establish Paternity, Custody, and Support with the District Court.
- If paternity is contested, the court will order genetic testing for the alleged father, mother, and child.
- Attend a settlement conference or mediation to try to reach an agreement on custody, visitation, and support.
- If no agreement is reached, proceed to a hearing where a judge will establish paternity and issue orders.
Why You Need a Father Rights Lawyer Wicomico County
Without established paternity, you have no legal rights to custody, visitation, or input on your child’s life. A father rights lawyer Wicomico County advocates to secure these fundamental rights. They handle the legal process, from filing the correct petitions to presenting evidence of your relationship and fitness as a parent. They also work to ensure any child support obligation is calculated fairly under Maryland’s guidelines.
Case Results & Firm Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. While specific Wicomico County paternity case counts are integrated into our firm-wide results, our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Maryland family law procedures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Of Counsel attorney Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, brings firsthand prosecutorial insight to building strong cases for our clients in Maryland courts.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our Maryland location serves clients in Wicomico County, including Salisbury, Fruitland, Delmar, Mardela Springs, Sharptown, and Pittsville.
Paternity Rights in Wicomico County: Frequently Asked Questions
How is paternity established in Wicomico County, Maryland?
It depends. If both parents agree, they can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity (AOP). If paternity is disputed, a father, mother, child, or the state must file a complaint in the District Court of MD for Wicomico County. The court will then order genetic testing to determine biological fatherhood.
What rights do I get after establishing paternity?
Establishing paternity grants you legal rights to seek custody or visitation, to have a say in major decisions about your child’s welfare, and creates your obligation to provide financial support. It also allows your child to inherit from you and access benefits like health insurance and Social Security.
Can I get custody as a father in Wicomico County?
Yes. Maryland law does not favor mothers over fathers in custody decisions. Once paternity is established, a father has the same right as the mother to file for custody. The court uses a “best interests of the child” standard, considering factors like each parent’s fitness, character, and the child’s existing bonds.
How long does a paternity case take in Wicomico County?
If paternity is uncontested and an AOP is signed, it can be immediate. A contested case requiring court filing and genetic testing typically takes 3 to 6 months from filing to a final hearing, depending on the court’s schedule and case complexity.
What if the mother denies me visitation?
If paternity is established and you have a court order for visitation, denying that visitation can be grounds for a contempt action. If you have no order, you must first establish paternity and then file for a custody and visitation order. A paternal rights lawyer Wicomico County can file the necessary motions to enforce your rights.
Related Pages: For other legal needs, see our Wicomico County criminal defense lawyer and Wicomico County DUI lawyer pages. Learn more about Maryland family law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.