Petition to Establish Paternity
Legal filing to establish the biological father of a child born outside of marriage, enabling custody, visitation, and child support determinations.
Instructions
Identify the mother, alleged father, and child. State the facts supporting paternity (relationship, cohabitation, acknowledgment). Request genetic testing if paternity is disputed. Once paternity is established, the court can enter orders for custody, visitation, child support, and the child's surname. Either parent, the child, or a state agency may file. Some states allow voluntary acknowledgment of paternity at the hospital.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.