The simplest way to establish paternity is for both parents to sign and file an Acknowledgment of Paternity. This service is available in the hospital at birth, free of charge, or you can telephone the support specialist at your Family Independence Agency for free help. After the Acknowledgment of Paternity form is recorded with the Department of Public Health the paternity of the child is legally established. If both parents do not sign the Acknowledgment of Paternity form, paternity can be established by the court.
If the mother is receiving public assistance, the prosecuting attorney's office in the county where she lives will help her to establish paternity.
If the mother is not receiving public assistance, she should contact the Family Independence Agency in the county where she lives for help in establishing paternity. She may also contact a private attorney.
Paternity can be established even if the alleged father lives in another state. At some point in the paternity action, the court may require the mother, the alleged father and the child to take a blood test. The blood test results are presented in court as evidence if a hearing is held.
An order establishing the paternity of a child does not automatically address issues of child custody, parenting time or support. These are separate issues handled by the circuit court.
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Last updated 3-15-06
Send your comments, questions and suggestions to Phil Harter at 161 E Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014 or e mail to pharter@calhouncountymi.gov