Obtaining a Declaration of Paternity is a legal way to establish the parent-child relationship. In addition to establishing a child’s legal identity, it also provides specific custodial and financial rights to the father.
Most states have laws that require unmarried parents to have an opportunity to establish paternity. Using these documents is an easy way to raise a child financially. But if the parents do not cooperate with the other party, the case may be closed.
A Declaration of Paternity is a legal document that provides a father with specific rights, including the right to visitation, custody and child support. It also establishes the biological father as an ongoing source of child support.
In order to receive a Declaration of Paternity, a man must sign an affidavit that confirms he is the father of the child. The affidavit can be signed at a hospital, child support agency, or public agency. The affidavit is also filed with the local department of vital statistics or county welfare department.
In some states, the paternity affidavit may be placed directly on the birth certificate. If the parents do not agree with the affidavit, they can challenge it in court. The declaration may be rescinded if there is a material mistake in the document or if the affidavit was signed under duress.
If the parents do not agree, they must present witnesses to prove that they are both parties to the declaration. If the parties cannot agree, they may schedule a hearing and present evidence to the court. If the court is satisfied with the evidence, the court will enter an order of filiation.
