How Do I Establish Paternity of a Child?
by: Alaska Legal Services Corporation
If you and the mother were married at the time the child was born, you probably are listed as the father of that child, even without a genetic test to prove that you are or aren't. The husband is considered the "putative father." If you and the mother weren't married, and you weren't listed on the birth certificate as the father, then you will need to acknowledge the child.
You can easily acknowledge the child by completing an affidavit. You can get the required form from the Bureau of Vital Statistics or the Department of Health and Social Services. The Child Support Services Division can also help people establish paternity. The father can complete an affidavit acknowledging the child, which is the easiest way to do it. Even if the father is not the custodial parent, he can apply for CSSD help establishing paternity. If there is any controversy over paternity, CSSD can order a genetic test to be done to confirm or deny paternity. If you do not want to involve CSSD, there are private labs that will perform a genetic test for a fee. This requires a sample from the father and the child.
Last Reviewed On: 01/12/05
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