Is there a time limit for a man to contest paternity?

In California, there is a time limit for a man to contest paternity of a child. Generally, a man must contest paternity within two years of the date he is served with a notice that he is the presumed father of the child. This notice will be sent if the man is listed on the child’s birth certificate, or a court order declared the man to be the father. In some circumstances, the two-year time limit will not begin until the man knows or reasonably should know he is the child’s father. If a man wishes to file a paternity action after two years have passed, he can only do so when the court finds there is good cause to extend the period. Good cause may include fraud, duress, misrepresentation, or any other reason recognized by the court. As such, it is possible for a man to contest paternity even after two years have passed, but this must be done with the approval of the court. It is important for men to respond to any paternity notices before the two-year time limit expires. If a man does not respond in time, he could be found to have accepted paternity and have a court order requiring him to pay child support. It is also possible for a man to waive his right to contest paternity if he agrees to sign a declaration of paternity. Therefore, men should seek legal advice immediately if they receive a paternity notice.

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Is there a time limit for a man to contest paternity?

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