Madison, Wisconsin Paternity Lawyers

How is paternity established?

Three common ways: voluntary acknowledgment (both parents sign a legal document, often at the hospital), genetic testing (DNA tests are over 99% accurate), or court order. If paternity is disputed, either parent can petition the court to order DNA testing. Some states presume the husband is the father of children born during marriage, which can complicate matters.

What rights does an unmarried father have?

Once paternity is legally established, an unmarried father generally has the right to seek custody and visitation, must pay child support, and the child gains inheritance rights and access to the father's benefits (Social Security, health insurance, veterans' benefits). Without legal paternity, an unmarried father may have no enforceable rights.

Can I challenge paternity after signing an acknowledgment?

Most states allow a limited window (often 60 days to 2 years) to rescind a voluntary acknowledgment. After that window, challenging paternity becomes much harder — you'd typically need to prove fraud, duress, or material mistake of fact. Courts prioritize the child's best interests, which can mean maintaining an established parent-child relationship even when DNA says otherwise.