Does Jag assist with paternity tests?

PFC Don Jenks — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 10:06:28 -0400

My buddy currently enlisted in the army and he wants to fight for a court ordered paternity test. Could Jag assist him or does he need to hire a private attorney?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2019 10:31 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 10:31:20 -0400

JAG doesn't get involved with any domestic issues like family law. They only tell you what your (his) legal responsibilities are toward dependents.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2019 5:52 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 17:52:58 -0400

They can provide advise and some may assist in drafting or reviewing a petition to the court but they can not represent, so their name will not be on any paperwork and they will not go with you to court.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Aug 12 at 2019 6:11 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 18:11:32 -0400

When I divorced my 1st wife she came back two years later with a 4 month old baby wanting support payments. It was cut and dry for me since I had been deployed for 20 months without having taken any leave time.
The JAG helped me rebut her claims by notarizing my deployment dates, assignment locations (we had several MTTs out of Panama) plus JAG drafted a letter that stated the Army needed to verify paternity through a MD consented to by both (her and I) parties before support payments would be approved.
I did have to pay for the paternity test but that was no problem. As you can already tell - it wasn't my kid.
Use what the JAG can do for you because it will save you a lot of money. I spoke with a JAG officer today about this and he said there should not be a problem with them helping you draft the letters.
You do know they have enlisted personnel to do the typing - correct?