Paternity

Paternity is classified as the quality or state of being a Father. The individual wanting to verify Paternity can be the Mother, Father, or child, depending on the wishes of the individual involved. With science giving us more precise results, the issue of determining paternity is less complicated and more dependable than previous years. DNA analysis procedures include DNA Genetic Identity and SWAB Test. The locations of DNA testing centers and the costs for the procedures are reasonable. Therefore, most paternity issues are established before trial. Complaints and petitions to prove Paternity have become more routine and agreed to by all individuals. Consequently, custody and child support measures are also involved.

Children who are born to an unwed couple do not automatically have a legal Father. A Paternity action must take place to establish the identity of the Father, whether agreed or disputed. Various States allow the establishment of Paternity by the implementation of an Acknowledgment of Paternity form without a litigation process.

Reasons to Determine Paternity:

• Support: It takes both parents, to the best of their ability, to fairly care for a child’s needs by today’s standards
• Health: It is vital to know the health history of both parents for medical care and treatment of the child
• Identity: To supply the child with a needed identity
• Public Assistance: Paternity can also be used to request public assistance where they are eligible
• Benefits: Social security, inheritance, health insurance, and veteran's benefits can be awarded to the child with verifying paternity