Regardless, if a court serves you and commands your presence, you should appear. There is a fairly uniform law between all states that governs when a court has jurisdiction over a child. Based on the very vague facts provided, it sounds like the proper court to hear issues relating to paternity and visitation is in Pennsylvania. But, depending on the circumstances such as whether and for how long you and the child lived in Massachusetts, the Massachusetts courts may also have jurisdiction over visitation for your child. In any case, it is always safest to have an attorney move to dismiss the case in Massachusetts for lack of personal jurisdiction, subject matter jurisdiction, and improper venue.
Answered on Apr 11th, 2012 at 11:48 AM