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How We Identify Paternity
Paternity means fatherhood. Paternity is considered legally established if the child is born during the course of a marriage. If a child is born outside of a marriage and the father's name is not already on the birth certificate, paternity can be established in one of two ways:
- Legal establishment of paternity - If the man alleged as the child's father denies being the father, or if the mother is unsure of who the father is, a legal action may be filed and genetic tests can be performed. If the father continues to state that he is not the father, a court hearing may be requested and the judge will make the determination.
- Voluntary acknowledgment of paternity - If the man alleged as the father admits paternity, he will be asked to sign a legal acknowledgment stating that he is the father.
Reasons Paternity is Important
- Identity - Children have the right to know their mother and father.
- Medical reasons - It may be possible to obtain medical insurance for the child through the father's employer.
- Money - The father may be required to pay child support if paternity has been legally established.
- Survivor benefits - If the father dies, his child could qualify for a number of benefits, such as Social Security, inheritance, veteran's benefits and life insurance.
Contact Us
For additional information about how Adams County Child Support Services can help establish paternity, please contact the Human Services Department at 303.227.2233.
