My question involves child support in the State of: SC
I am the mother of a 3-year-old little boy. He was conceived under circumstances that are quite embarrassing...His father and I did not know each other well and were together only once. He moved out of state before I even knew that I was pregnant and I later discovered that he was, in fact, married. I contacted him regarding my pregnancy as soon as I found out. He initially told me that he was interested in being involved and asked if I needed help, money, etc. I said no, but that I wanted to stay in touch. We corresponded one additional time through email regarding some medical issues and he quit answering my messages. After giving birth, I sent him pictures monthly, but eventually emailed him and told him that I would not be contacting him again unless my son asked in the future. He is not listed on the birth certificate (my son has my last name).
Over the past few months, I have begun to question my decision to avoid pursuing child support and paternity verification. The father is currently stationed overseas. I am anxious about filing for support because I am scared of the repercussions...I cannot afford a lawyer at this time, so I hope that this is an appropriate forum to ask a few questions before I go any further.
Following are my questions:
If I were to pursue child support, would it be best to contact him directly first or go straight through DSS?
Would I be required to pay for paternity testing or would the cost be split?
I am terrified that if I were to pursue child support, he would file for shared custody just to spite me. If he were interested in having a relationship with my son, I would be completely in agreement, but what are the guidelines for establishing a relationship, especially when the father is stationed overseas/out of state?
Would he be able to petition to have my son's last name changed?
Would there be repercussions for him as an enlisted military personnel (as far as adultry, etc. are concerned?)
Would my son have to be covered by his insurance? I work for the state of SC and we have full coverage insurance.
I really appreciate any information that anybody has to offer.

