The mother of my child won’t take my child for a court-ordered paternity test, and I don’t know what to do next. We’re in California, and we went to court once. The judge ordered the DNA test two months ago, but nothing has happened since. Has anyone been through this?
If she’s ignoring a court order, you can file a motion for contempt. The judge will then set a hearing to figure out what’s going on.
Reagan said:
If she’s ignoring a court order, you can file a motion for contempt. The judge will then set a hearing to figure out what’s going on.
Thanks… I didn’t know about that. How long does it take to file something like that?
@Yan
It depends on your court, but once it’s filed, it should move pretty quickly.
You should contact the bar association or legal aid society for help. They offer free or low-cost services in cases like this.
Jody said:
You should contact the bar association or legal aid society for help. They offer free or low-cost services in cases like this.
Good idea. I’ll look into contacting them. I’m just overwhelmed by all this.
Has the judge given a deadline for when the DNA test should be done? If not, the court might still push for one if you file a motion.
Ari said:
Has the judge given a deadline for when the DNA test should be done? If not, the court might still push for one if you file a motion.
No deadline was given, but I guess I need to go back to court and follow up.
Sorry you’re going through this. Filing the motion for contempt sounds like your best move if she’s not complying.
I’d recommend you contact a lawyer or even a legal clinic at a local law school. They might be able to assist with the contempt motion.
NelsonCarter said:
I’d recommend you contact a lawyer or even a legal clinic at a local law school. They might be able to assist with the contempt motion.
I hadn’t thought about law school clinics. Thanks, I’ll check that out!