There are many different reasons why Arizona fathers should establish themselves as the fathers of their children. For instance, it allows them to play an active role in a son or daughter’s life. Furthermore, children tend to do better when they know who both of their biological parents are.
How to establish paternity
A father may voluntarily acknowledge that he is a child’s biological parent by filling out a form at the hospital where the child was born. Alternatively, an acknowledgment form may be submitted to the appropriate state agency prior to the child’s 18th birthday.
If there is any doubt as to who a child’s father is, paternity might be established through a DNA test. In the event that an individual refuses to take a DNA test, he may be named by the state as the minor’s legal father. The same is true if an individual does not dispute a test result that confirms he is a child’s biological parent.
What happens after paternity is established?
In most cases, the man who is deemed to be a minor’s father will have the right to seek visitation or custody rights to that child. As a general rule, the law prefers that both parents spend a significant amount of time with their kids. If a father is not granted custody rights, that person will likely be ordered to make child support payments.
An attorney may be able to help you determine who your child’s biological father is. Legal counsel may assist in the process of locating the potential birth father or take steps to compel an individual to submit to genetic testing. If you believe that you’re a child’s legal father, a lawyer might help you obtain access to your child in a timely manner.