Hello, I'm actually a male, but I need help... There is a chance I might have a daughter I never knew about, she is 16 yrs. If I took a DNA test and she turned out to be my daughter would I have to pay any back child support or any other money her mom received from the government for her? Oh yea the girl (my daughter) is pregnant and a high school drop out and stays in trouble. Honestly, should I wait until she's 18 so I can deal with her as an adult/not her mom or should I find out now so I can try and help her. Please give me some constructive/positive feedback... thanks
I can't answer well as I see merits to both sides of your issue with no personal knowledge. You certainly should contact an attorney to protect your rights and concerns. They would be able to better advise you unless you are looking for a response only to the moral aspects. Best wishes to you and many blessings to the young lady you believe might be your daughter.
I don't know anything about the back child support issue, but I agree that you should find out now rather than waiting 2 years, especially since there's a baby on the way. It sounds like she needs some guidance and a positive role model. If she is your daughter, I realize it's a lot for you to get involved with and take on, but depending on the extent of her mother's involvement and their relationship, somebody needs to make sure she's getting prenatal care and help her have a healthy pregnancy. She may be eligible for WIC or other assistance and it sounds like she would benefit from parenting classes. If she can't handle a child, maybe she should consider adoption. I'm sure you can find (or another responder might be able to recommend) organizations that can help out with baby gear and clothes. Good luck!
Although I don't think you would be responsible for any back child support or any benefits the child's mother may have received, you need to discuss this with an attorney who specializes in family law.
If you find that she is your child, I think you should do your best to be a part of her life and be positive role model for her - based on the information in you've given, it sounds like she may need one.
Best of luck to you!
Back child support I don't know about, but I do know that a pregnant 16 y/o is an emancipated minor. You should attempt to find out if you are her father immediately, if you are then perhaps you can be some help to her. Heaven knows she will need it.
