Paternity
"Paternity" means that there is a legal parenting relationship between a parent and their child.
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Common questions about paternity and paternity tests
"Paternity" means that there is a legal relationship between a child and their parent. If the mother is married when her child is born: Her spouse is the child's legal parent as well. Her spouse’s name will go on the birth certificate. You...
How to bring a Complaint to Establish Paternity case in court
You start a paternity action in court by first filling out court forms. This "how to" explains the steps if you are ready to start a case. Not ready to start a case yet? Learn more about paternity tests and when you might want to file a...
How to establish paternity voluntarily
If you are not married but both parents agree who the father is, the two of you can sign a form called a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage. This form gives legal rights and responsibilities to the biological father. It also gives rights...
Video: Establishing paternity
Learn about what paternity is and why it is important to establish paternity in this video created by the Child Support Enforcement division of the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. Learn more at Common questions about paternity and...
What if I am married but I have a baby with another man?
If you are married to someone other than the father of your child and you want the biological father’s name on your child’s birth certificate, you need two forms: an Affidavit of Non-paternity and a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage...