Paternity

Depending if the parties are married at the time of birth, there are several methods to establish paternity, though signing the birth certificate is not sufficient.

Married Parties

1. Unless disputed, the husband is presumed to be the biological father and there is no need for Genetic Test (DNA) or Acknowledgement of Paternity;

Unmarried Parties

1. Acknowledgement of Paternity is a document that is usually completed at the hospital; or
2. Genetic Testing is performed through CSEA or an accredited genetic lab. The process consists of a swab of mother, presumed father and child; or
3. Admission of the father in open court; or
4. Default Judgment occurs if the presumed or named father does not appear for the court proceedings, the court will deem him the biological father if there is no evidence to the contrary.

Child Custody | Child Support | Divorce | Domestic Partnership | Paternity | "Prenups"