Santee, California

According to California law, a paternity test is the typical determining factor that can prove someone is the biological parent of a child. The majority of DNA testing in this state is conducted to prove whether a male is the biological father of a child. The purpose of establishing the biological father is usually to provide children with benefits related to heath insurance, Social Security, military benefits, survivors' benefits and inheritance. Children with medical issues may also want to know the medical history of their father. And finally, paternity testing can establish whether a child has the right to receive child support.

California law almost always recognizes the mother as the legal parent of the child. However, determining the father is not such an easy task at times. Recognizing that some fathers may not consent to DNA testing for a variety of reasons, a judge may order a paternity test against the parent's will.

Some fathers are in the opposite boat and find that if they are not married their paternity can only be recognized through legal action. To initiate proceedings, one of the parents must file a complaint with the court to establish rights. It is important to note that courts usually find that any married man who is not sterile and is cohabitating with the mother is legally the father of a child from that union. If other parties are involved, or someone wishes to dispute this presumption, legal proceedings must be initiated to resolve physical and legal custody of any children involved.

Nothing in this article should be construed as legal advice. Individual circumstances and facts vary from case to case. Any and all questions about divorce, support or family law should be directed to a qualified and experienced family law attorney.

Santee is a city rich with history and tradition. The original inhabitants were the Kumeyaay Indians. This tribe of Native Americans established a prosperous village on the banks of the San Diego River called Sinyeweche. However, the city was named after Milton Santee, a San Diego area ranching pioneer.

Fast forward to current times, Santee quickly became a suburban city located about 18 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Connected to the coastline by State Route 52, Santee is bisected by the San Diego River. According to locals, Santee is a recreational haven that includes parks, trails and more than 1,100 acres of natural riparian habitat. Santee is also recognized as a growing suburban community that has increasing amounts of upscale housing, corporate business parks, shopping centers and many recreational attractions. Among these attractions are the Sportsplex, Santee Boulders, Santee Lakes Regional Park and Campground, the Carlton Oaks Golf Course, The Santee Wine & Bluegrass Festival at the Town Center Community Park and a riverfront trail system designed to connect with trails in Lakeside and Mission Trails Regional Park.

Santee residents who need legal assistance use the family courthouse in El Cajon. The address for the East County Regional Center is 250 East Main Street.

At Doppelt and Forney, APLC, we believe that it is important for you to know your legal rights prior to making any important decisions. For this reason, we offer a complete and confidential consultation to discuss your legal situation. At your consultation, we will hear all of your unique issues and help you figure out the steps you should take to achieve your unique legal goals.

As added value, we are proud members of the San Diego Better Business Bureau and San Diego County Bar Association. We handle most family law issues in our practice and offer an experienced and friendly faculty at our law firm. Our offices are just a short drive from Santee. To get here, take the 52 freeway to the I-15 Get off the freeway at the Bernardo Center Drive exit and head east. We are located to the left in the Clock Tower Office Complex. Our hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We are closed weekends and legal holidays. Feel free to schedule your consultation online or by calling 858-312-8500. We look forward to serving your San Diego family law needs.