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Getting custody with legal acknowledgement of parentage

On Behalf of | Oct 21, 2021 | Divorce

As a father, something you have to keep in mind is that it’s not always straightforward that you’re the father of your child. You may not look similar, and you could even have different skin or eye colors.

Appearances don’t tell the whole story, which is why it’s always wise for those who have children to look into DNA testing when they aren’t sure if they’re the father. By proving that you’re the father of a child, you can guarantee certain legal protections, such as a right to ask for custody or to be involved in your child’s life.

Do all men need DNA testing?

Not necessarily. If you and your partner are exclusive, then you may decide that you don’t want DNA testing and agree that the baby is yours. In that case, you and the mother may sign a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity.

If you are married, it’s usually assumed that you are the father of a child born to your wife. If this is not the case for any reason, then it’s a good idea to get a DNA test to identify the child’s father.

Men who are not married and who cannot be sure that a child is theirs should look into paternity testing. This gives them the opportunity to verify that they are their children’s fathers before they acknowledge paternity.

Why does proving paternity matter?

Proving paternity matters for a few reasons. To start with, those who are not married don’t automatically have a right to custody. Men in that set of circumstances may want to look into DNA testing to prove that they are the father and to legally seek custody rights.

Paternity testing is also beneficial for your child. They’ll know, with certainty, where they came from and be able to obtain all the benefits of being related to you. This may include things like knowing their history or family’s medical background. They could also seek health insurance or child support.

Proving that you are your child’s father is important. If you’d like to do so, then you may want to petition the court for a DNA test.

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