What is the process for establishing paternity?

Establishing paternity is an important step in determining the legal rights and responsibilities of fathers in California. The process is slightly different depending on the circumstances, but in general, the process of establishing paternity involves filling out a court-approved form, called a “Voluntary Declaration of Paternity,” which legally recognizes the father as being the biological parent of the child. If both parents agree on who the father is, then they can both sign the form in front of witnesses and/or a notary public. Then, the form should be filed with the California Department of Child Support Services, where it will be registered. After the form is filed and processed, the father will then be given the same legal rights and responsibilities as any other parent. If the mother does not agree on who the father is, then paternity needs to be established through a DNA test. In this case, paternity can be established through a court-ordered blood test or a home DNA test. A court-ordered blood test requires a judge’s approval and is generally more reliable than a home DNA test. Once the paternity of the child is established, then the father is legally responsible for providing financial support for the child. In California, the father is also required to be listed on the birth certificate, and the mother can use the court-approved form to get an official birth certificate with the father’s name on it. Establishing paternity is necessary for a child to have the legal benefits and financial support of both of their parents.

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What is the process for establishing paternity?

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