What happens if you continuously dodge being served family court documents?

Question

My ex partner wants to go through the courts to demand a DNA test as i have not listed him on the birth certificate and he wants his rights established but legally needs to be proven he is the father before that happens, he is abusive and i do not want him having anything to do with us. What happens if he can't find me to serve me the documents? What actions will the courts take against me in this case.

Answer 1

They will issue a warrant for your arrest.

Answer 2

Unfortunately, you have to play by the rules of the law, or it could come back to haunt you when it matters most!

Contact an attorney immediately.  If you can't afford one, contact family services and they will find one for you who can do the work pro bono (free).  (Although I'd ask them for someone experienced in these types of cases, and would figure out how to pay for someone good.)

Evading your husband's legal request will come back to haunt you if you should ever go to a custody trial.  Allowing him to get a DNA test and pursue his rights shows that you're cooperative, enabling the judge to favor you more.  

Concentrate on documenting the reasons why you don't want him to have anything to do with you.  If he was abusive, and there is any paper trail whatsoever, photo evidence, witnesses, etc., start gathering that material.  (Get witness testimony on paper, and have them sign it in front of a notary.)  This way, if he does take the DNA test results to a court, you will be prepared to show the judge why you fear having him in your life will have very negative consequences to your children.

He's planning to attack.  You have to QUIETLY plan your counterattack (so he doesn't know it's coming).  But if you just try and evade him, he could make you look like an irresponsible person.

Answer 3

They will eventually find you.  You should consult a lawyer about your rights and the his rights.  You may have to petition for an order stripping him of his parental rights.

Answer 4

Call Family Services and an attorney.