In Maryland, every child is given the right to receive child support from each of his or her parents. Parents wishing to seek child support can actually apply online to do so through the State of Maryland website. The Child Support Enforcement Administration (CSEA) has a calculator on its website that helps determine how much a person may owe in child support as well, which may be beneficial to some parents.
It’s important for the father of a child to determine paternity if child support is an issue. He may want to seek a DNA test if a mother is requesting child support, especially if he was unaware of the child previously or did not realize that he had fathered a child. DNA tests are painless for the father and child, and it guarantees that the child receives support from the correct person.
Mothers or fathers have a right to ask for a DNA test at any point. It’s a good idea to do this if you’re not certain about the father of a child or if you’re not sure you’re the father of a child. Once you take on the role of a father, it is difficult to stop doing so, and you could be held accountable for support even if you aren’t the biological father.
If you have questions about child support, it’s a good idea to talk to your attorney. Our website has more about child support and what you should do if you have to pay or want to receive it. Your child deserves an income from two parents.
