What if the father has doubts about his paternity?

If the father has doubts about his paternity in Pennsylvania, he has several options available to him. The first is to file a court action for genetic testing, which is a process that compares the DNA of the alleged father to that of the child. The results of this test can be used as evidence in a paternity suit. If the father is not willing to go through this process, he can invoke his right to an in loco parentis proceeding. This process requires that the father and alleged mother appear in court and the court will determine paternity through a preponderance of the evidence. The father also has the option of signing a voluntary acknowledgement of paternity. This is a form that is often provided in hospitals at the time of birth or can be obtained from the Bureau of Vital Statistics. Once the form is signed, the father is legally responsible for the child and has the same rights and obligations as any other parent. Finally, the father can refuse to sign any forms and must provide written notice to the Bureau of Vital Statistics that he is not the father. A court action will be required to settle the issue. In any of these cases, the father has the right to legal representation throughout the process.

Related FAQs

How does paternity law address surrogacy and egg donation?
What is the purpose of a paternity test?
What is a paternity suit?
My ex-partner has acknowledged paternity, does that automatically make him the legal father?
Does the law recognize the rights of grandparents in paternity cases?
What is the process for establishing legal paternity?
How is paternity established if the father is not available to take a DNA test?
Can a man be held responsible for child support if paternity is not established?
How long does a paternity suit take to resolve?
Are there any limitations on a mother's rights in paternity cases?

What if the father has doubts about his paternity?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts