Paternity

Paternity is defined as the quality or state of being a Father.  The person wanting to establish Paternity can either be the Mother, Father, or child, depending on the individual desires of the parties involved.  With science giving us more accurate testing, the matter of establishing paternity is easier and more reliable than in the past.  DNA testing methods include SWAB Test and DNA Genetic Identity.  DNA testing centers are easy to locate and the costs are  reasonable.  For this reason, most paternity matters are settled prior to trial.  In addition, Complaints and Petitions to establish Paternity are now often routine and agreed to by all parties.  The resulting child support and custody proceedings are also involved.

Children born to unwed persons do not automatically have a legal Father without a Paternity action establishing the identity of the Father, whether agreed or contested.

Note:  Some States allow the establishment of Paternity by the execution of an Acknowledgment of Paternity form without a formal Court action.

Schedule a free initial consultation today!

Reasons to Establish Paternity:

• Identity:  To provide the child with a needed identity.
• Health:  It is important to know the health history of both the Mother and Father for medical care and treatment of the child.
• Support:  It takes two to fairly support a child in today’s world to the extent of their ability.
• Benefits:  Establishing Paternity allows the child to be covered by health insurance, social security, inheritance and veteran’s benefits.
• Public Assistance:  Paternity also means the parties can seek public assistance where they qualify.

Source: US Legal Forms