I am scheduled for court for paternity results and...??

Question

I am scheduled to go to MD court for paternity results and determination of benefits. I did my DNA test but haven't heard anything about her going to take her test. I have an important meeting I am scheduled for the same day and am wondering if I will have a bench warrant issued if I don't go to court. When I received notice a few months back that this young lady wanted to pursue me for child support I went to court. We did a DNA she was suppose to bring the child with her and did not. Therefore, I did my test that same day while she scheduled to have her's done another day. A friend of mine was telling me that when she went through this she received results in the mail prior to the actual court date. I have reason to believe that the lady didn't come back for her DNA test. Anyway, long story short....Since I did my test and I am going back for results can they issue a bench warrant if I do not show up in court? AND is it true that since I haven't received any DNA results that it's possible that this lady didn't take the baby for the test as instructed. Also, this is for Baltimore County, Maryland. Thank you for all of your help!!

Answer 1

its civil not criminal so you will be found in contempt of court if you do not show up if you have a lawyer call them up and see if you can get the date changed if not suck it up and go to court  

Answer 2

Be there to protect your rights.  It could mean a lot to you in the long run, so, just be there.

Answer 3

Why would you not show up? If you are not the father like you suspect (or she never completed the DNA tests) then you will receive good news and it will be over. If you are the father, won't you want to know right away? I don't think any "important meeting" is more important than determining if you are a father, but that is just my opinion. The judge will see what is important to you and take appropriate action. Just remember, it is not important what she does or does not do as long as you are fulfilling your obligations to the court.

By the way, court decisions, child support determination, and custody arrangements can be made without you there. So if you are willing to accept the judge's decision without any input from you then you can miss the court date.