PPaternity and Juvenile Court

Paternity and Juvenile Court lawyers serving Akron

Serving Akron, Canton, Summit County, Portage and Medina, Ohio.

At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we help parents navigate one of the most foundational aspects of family law: the legal relationship between a parent and child. When a child is born to unmarried parents in Ohio, the law automatically grants full custody to the mother until a court says otherwise. For mothers, this may provide a sense of control but can also lead to concerns about sharing decision-making or time with the father. For fathers, it can be disheartening to realize that meaningful legal rights — including parenting time and custody — must be established through court action.



We work with both mothers and fathers to establish paternity, address custody and support issues, and ensure that parenting decisions serve the best interests of the child. Whether you are trying to assert your rights or respond to another parent’s request, we are here to guide you through every legal step.

Establishing Paternity in Ohio

The first step in any juvenile or paternity court case is to establish legal paternity. Even if a father is listed on the birth certificate or has been involved in the child's life, legal rights do not begin until a court recognizes that relationship. A paternity case must be filed and, if needed, DNA testing may be ordered to confirm biological parentage.



Once paternity is legally established, the court can issue orders regarding custody, parenting time, and child support. We help parents file for paternity, respond to complaints, and present their parenting position clearly and respectfully to the court.

Navigating Juvenile and Family Courts

In Ohio, paternity and custody cases can be heard in Juvenile Court, Domestic Relations Court, or Family Court, depending on the county. Each court has its own procedures, forms, and timelines. Understanding which court has jurisdiction — and how that impacts your case — is critical to filing the right paperwork and making informed legal decisions.



Our attorneys have experience in all three court systems and provide clear guidance on how to proceed, what to expect, and how to protect your rights. We also handle cases involving initial custody determinations, parenting time disputes, child support, and post-judgment modifications within the juvenile court system.

What We Can Do for You

At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we support parents on both sides of a paternity or custody case. Whether you're establishing rights, responding to a legal action, or seeking to modify an existing court order, we provide focused, experienced representation.

Here's how we support you:

File or respond to paternity complaints in juvenile court

We draft and file Complaints to Establish Paternity and associated custody or support requests. We also represent clients responding to actions filed by the other parent.

Help establish custody and parenting time once paternity is proven

After paternity is confirmed, we work with you to request appropriate parenting orders. This may include drafting Shared Parenting Plans or seeking sole legal custody, depending on what best serves the child.

Assist with support calculations and child-related financial issues

We help prepare the Child Support Worksheet, Affidavit of Income and Expenses, and related financial disclosures needed to determine fair support obligations.

Represent you in hearings, modifications, and enforcement actions

Whether you're involved in your first court appearance or seeking to modify or enforce an existing order, we advocate for your rights and protect your child’s well-being.

Guide you through the specific court process in your county

Because paternity and juvenile court procedures vary by jurisdiction, we help you understand the rules and timelines unique to Summit, Portage, Medina, and surrounding counties.

When to Call a Paternity or Juvenile Court Attorney

If you're an unmarried parent and want to establish or protect your parental rights, the legal system can feel confusing and overwhelming. From paternity confirmation to child support and custody decisions, every step matters — and each document, hearing, and deadline can shape your future with your child.



Whether you're initiating a case or responding to one, Hoover Kacyon, LLC is here to provide clear legal advice and strong advocacy from start to finish.

FAQS

  • What if the father is on the birth certificate , does he have rights?

    Not automatically. In Ohio, legal rights for unmarried fathers begin only after a court establishes paternity. Being named on the birth certificate is not enough to receive parenting time or decision-making authority.

  • Can a mother lose custody in a juvenile court case?

    Possibly. If the court finds that shared parenting or granting custody to the father serves the child's best interests, the mother’s sole custody may be changed. We help both parents present evidence and protect their position.

  • What if paternity is contested?

    The court can order DNA testing to confirm biological parentage. Once paternity is proven, the father may request custody and support orders. We guide you through the testing process and next legal steps.

  • Do I need an attorney for a paternity or juvenile court case?

    It is highly recommended. Each court has specific rules, and your parenting rights are at stake. Our attorneys make sure filings are complete, deadlines are met, and your voice is heard clearly.

  • Can I modify custody or support orders after paternity is established?

    Yes. Custody and support orders can be modified if circumstances change. We help file motions, prepare affidavits, and present your case for an updated court order.

  • What if I’ve worked with another attorney before?

    That’s not a problem. We frequently take over or review existing cases. We’ll request your file, assess where things stand, and build a plan to move forward with continuity and care.

Contact Hoover Kacyon, LLC Today

At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we help individuals and families throughout Akron, Canton, and Northern Ohio find clarity and resolution during life’s most personal legal challenges. Whether you're pursuing a divorce, considering a dissolution, or responding to unexpected legal action, we’re here to help.


Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule a private consultation with an experienced divorce attorney.

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