How is paternity established if the father is not living in the same state as the mother?

When the father and mother of a child are not living in the same state, establishing paternity becomes a more complicated process. Paternity is the legal recognition of the relationship between a father and a child. In Kentucky, if the father is living in a different state than the mother, then the mother must inform the father of the child’s birth by certified mail. If the father fails to respond to the mother’s notice within 30 days, the mother may file a paternity action with a court in Kentucky. The court will usually order DNA testing to verify a biological connection between the father and the child. Once paternity is established, the court will issue an Order that grants the father parental rights to the child, including custody, visitation, and child support obligations. Fathers living in another state can also voluntarily sign an Acknowledgement of Paternity form which establishes paternity without the need for a court order. In both cases, the father must register with the Kentucky Department for Public Health. This is an important step, as it ensures that the father’s name is added to the child’s birth certificate. Once all of these steps are completed, the father and child can begin to enjoy the benefits of their legally recognized relationship.

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How is paternity established if the father is not living in the same state as the mother?

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