Establishing paternity gives both parents and their child the rights and opportunities they need and deserve.

For parents, establishing paternity:

• Ensures that both parents have custody and visitation rights
• Ensures that the father has the right to be notified of any plans to have the child adopted by someone else
• Ensures access to child support

For children, establishing paternity:

• Provides the opportunity to form a relationship with both parents
• Helps develop a sense of identity
• Provides access to both parents’ medical histories
• Provides access to health insurance and other financial benefits

Community Services	Family & Support Services Parenting & Caregiving
Areas Served	State-Wide

Last Updated: 03/02/23