Why is establishing paternity important?

Both parents and the child have the right to a parent-child relationship. Both parents and the child deserve an opportunity to develop, enjoy and grow in this relationship. Both parents have the right to know and the responsibility to support their own son or daughter.

IDENTITY: It is important to know who we are. Your child has the right to the sense of belonging that comes from knowing both parents.

MONEY: The law requires both parents to support their children. This is true even with an unplanned pregnancy. Children supported by one parent often do not have enough money for their needs.

BENEFITS: Your child has the right to other benefits from both parents. These benefits may include Social Security, insurance benefits, inheritance rights, veteran's and other types of benefits.

MEDICAL: Your child may need a complete Medical history from the families of both parents. This could include inherited health problems.

Show All Answers

1. Who is eligible for services from the child support division?
2. How can I apply for services?
3. Does the prosecuting attorney or the child support division also determine custody of the children and visitation rights, or settle visitation disputes?
4. Does the prosecuting attorney or the child support division also resolve property settlement matters?
5. Are the earnings of both parents considered in setting the amount of child support?
6. How are child support payments made
7. What if the parents of the child(ren) were never married to each other?
8. What is paternity and what does establishing paternity mean?
9. Why is establishing paternity important?
10. What are the benefits to the father of establishing paternity?
11. What if the father or mother is not 18?
12. How long after a child is born can paternity be established?
13. What does it mean to cooperate with the child support division?