Paternity actions consist of 3 parts:
- Establishment of paternity
- Establish custody and visitation
- Establish child support
The Missouri Supreme Court has approved a proposed parenting plan that may be adopted by the parents. Parents should give careful thought about their parenting plan and consult with an attorney before preparing such a plan. There are many pitfalls for the unwary.
Currently, administrative actions by the state of Missouri only establish items 1 and 3. When the State brings an action for paternity, it does not establish custody and visitation.