How do I get a court-ordered paternity test?

In North Carolina, a court-ordered paternity test can be requested when the father of a child is unknown or when there is dispute regarding the paternity of a child. The court order must be issued by a judge of the district court in the county in which the child or the mother of the child resides. In order to get a court-ordered paternity test, an individual must first file a Petition for Declaration of Paternity to the district court. Depending on the individual’s situation, they may need to include additional documents such as birth certificates, medical records, or other evidence. After filing, the court will usually schedule a hearing. At this hearing, the judge will decide if a paternity test should be ordered. If the judge orders a paternity test, the court will appoint a laboratory to conduct the test. The results of the paternity test will be presented to the court. The judge will then make a determination of paternity based on the results. In North Carolina, the court’s decision of paternity is binding and establishes a legal relationship between the father and child. Since the process of a court-ordered paternity test can be complex, it is often helpful to speak with an attorney who is knowledgeable about North Carolina’s paternity laws.

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How do I get a court-ordered paternity test?

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