Frequently Asked Questions:  Paternity

 
The father of my child and I are not married.  Can I get child support from him for our child?
Yes. However, in order to get child support from the father of your child, you must legally establish that he is the father and you must request child support.
 

If the alleged father denied that he is the father of my child, how can I prove that he is, in fact, the father of my child?
The easier way to prove he is the father of your child is through a blood test or DNA testing. However, there are "presumptions" in the law which, if met, will establish that he is the father of your child.
 

If I have to pay support for my child, do I have the right to visit my child?
Yes. However, if you were required to pay child support as the result of an action filed by the District Attorney, you may need to file a separate Complaint to establish visitation with your child.
 

What is the process to establish that someone is the father of my child?
In order to establish that someone is the father of your child, you must file a "Complaint to Establish Parental Relationship" in the proper court. The alleged father must then be personally served with the Summons and Complaint. The alleged father has thirty (30) days to answer the Complaint. If the alleged father answers the Complaint and admits being the parent of the child(ren), the court will then only have to issue:  1) orders establishing paternity; 2) orders regarding custody and visitation; and 3) orders determining child support. If the alleged father denies being the father of the child(ren), then you will have to prove that the person is in fact the father.