Establishing Paternity

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Establishing Paternity in Massachusetts

 

There are two ways to establish paternity. One can file a voluntary acknowledgment of parentage or through a paternity test. If you are a married couple, paternity is automatically established. If parents are not married and both agree the child is biological, the voluntary acknowledgment form must be filed. There are some cases in which a child may not be biological and require legal counsel. Sawin Law, P.C. has a knowledgeable attorney ready to speak with you and answer any questions as they arise.

When Parents are not married:

A voluntary acknowledgment of parentage must be signed by both parties stating the child is their biological child for both parents’ names to be listed on the birth certificate. If the biological father declines to sign an acknowledgment form, a complaint to establish paternity may be filed with the court. Thus, legal fatherhood is established when a voluntary acknowledgment form is signed or when the court establishes paternity.

What is Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage?

The mother and father mutually agree he is the biological father by signing the voluntary acknowledgment document with vital records. In addition to the mother’s name on the birth certificate, the father is also named, giving him legal rights to fatherhood. Some of the benefits of having both parents’ names on the birth certificate include:

  • Access to family health history
  • Medical benefits
  • Child support/public assistance
  • Death benefits/ inheritance

Complaint to Establishing Paternity:

Paternity can be established by DNA testing that the court orders. There are many reasons to establish paternity, including financial responsibilities, such as child support. The state can file a Complaint to Establish Paternity to regain costs associated with welfare the mother has received to raise the child. Massachusetts law does not limit those who can file to establish paternity.

An order of paternity can be sought by the:

  • Mother
  • Alleged father
  • Child
  • Child’s guardian
  • A representative of a Massachusetts public assistance program.

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We Will Go the Extra Mile to Protect Your Rights

A Compassionate, yet Fierce Advocate on Your Side

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High-Quality Legal Service Focused on Client Results

Attorney Sawin is a Marine Corps Veteran who Cares about His Community

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Chris and his staff made it easy and effortless for me.

I was going through a pretty ugly custody battle. The process is hard enough to navigate but with the times being what they are in 2020 I couldn't imagine going through this without Chris's help. I ended up with custody of my son and pretty much everything we were asking for. Chris and his staff made it easy and effortless for me. From one Marine to another, Semper Fi brother and thank you for all you've done.

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I have known Chris for quite some time and am consistently impressed by his character and professionalism. I see Chris every Tuesday for a networking group and each week he has another success story for helping someone get what they're owed. Chris helps run the networking group and if his punctuality, willingness to go the extra mile, and attention to detail he displays as NRBA's VP is any indication of his professional practice, Chris is a rare find.
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  • Why Hire Sawin Law, P.C.
  • We Will Go the Extra Mile to Protect Your Rights
  • High-Quality Legal Service Focused on Client Results
  • A Compassionate, yet Fierce Advocate on Your Side
  • Attorney Sawin is a Marine Corps Veteran who Cares about His Community
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