Finding out that a former partner is pregnant may be an overwhelming experience. Some may be excited and ready to take on the responsibilities of having a baby, but others may have questions. A potential father may wonder how the two will care for the child while they are no longer together. He may have questions about potential child support payments and child custody agreements. He may wonder what fathers’ rights are in a situation like this. And if the couple has been separated for some time, he may even wonder if the child is his.
In a recent case that is making national headlines, celebrity actor Ryan Phillippe is waiting to undergo paternity testing after discovering his ex-girlfriend is pregnant. Phillippe’s actress ex-girlfriend has reportedly been telling friends that Phillippe is the father of her unborn child.
Phillippe, who already has two children with ex-wife Reese Witherspoon, is reportedly ready to care for the child if it is indeed his. He will take a paternity test once the baby is born. His ex-girlfriend is due to give birth in June.
Determining paternity can be a stressful experience. If it is discovered that you are the father of the child in question, your life will change forever. You may have to negotiate terms of visitation and child support payments with your former partner. If you have other children, it may be difficult to explain to them that you are having another child.
In situations like this, paternity testing can be very important. Experienced Denver attorneys understand that paternity cases can be very complex. Seeking experienced legal advice may be beneficial.
Source
Long Island Press: “Ryan Phillippe: Ryan Phillippe Waits For Paternity Test undefined,” Andrea Devaro, 16 March 2011