Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland
Paternity Test cost: Who pays
The father was 100 percent sure baby was his, but for financial reasons with his current spouse, he request the paternity test. A lawyer was used and they originally agreed to pay the full cost. Once I agreed they kept changing their minds as to how much the father would pay. They eventually decided that I should pay half of the total cost. (I agreed because I needed to have that in place for child support). However, I am still under the impression that whoever requested the test should pay full cost.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Paternity Test cost: Who pays
Had you filed a paternity action in court and the father requested a blood test, the court would have required him to pay the full cost. By doing
it informally, it's determined by whatever agreement is made between you and the father. However, if after the test he balks at paying the proper amount of support, you should file a paternity action (you need legal assistance) and ask for child support, the cost of the blood tests and attorney's fees. Child support is computed on statutory guidelines based upon the respective income of the parents and other factors such as daycare expenses.
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
