Southern California Family Law Attorney Blog

Three weeks ago we wrote about a lawsuit filed against former basketball star Michael Jordan. A woman filed a lawsuit recently claiming that Jordan was the father of her 16-year-old child. She was seeking a paternity test and child support from Jordan. The hall of famer denied any relationship to or responsibility for the boy.

In a dramatic turn of events, the woman withdrew the paternity suit last week. According to her attorneys, the woman filed the lawsuit without legal help and withdrew it at her attorney’s advice. Because it was withdrawn without prejudice, she has the option of filing it again. According to her attorney, she has not changed any of her allegations against Jordan, possibly alluding to a second filing in the future.

According to his spokesperson, there was no settlement between Jordan and the woman. Jordan continues to deny the allegations, and his attorneys have pointed to the woman’s divorce filing — which says her ex-husband is the father of the boy in question — as proof that Jordan is not the father. It will be interesting to see if the woman comes back with a second filing.

Whether you are faced with a paternity suit or have decided to file one, it is important to fully understand the legal process that surrounds paternity. An attorney can help explain the process and ensure that your rights are protected as you go through the process. Although it may seem straightforward, paternity case can be complex, so it is often beneficial to work with someone who is familiar with the related laws.

Source: Sports Illustrated, "Woman withdraws paternity suit against Michael Jordan," March 18, 2013