Establishing paternity is an important legal step that protects a child’s rights and clarifies a parent’s responsibilities. In Utah, paternity determines who a child’s legal father is and directly affects issues such as child custody, visitation, child support, inheritance rights, and access to medical information.

Whether you are a mother seeking support for your child or a father wanting to protect your parental rights, understanding how paternity is established in Utah can help you move forward with confidence.

Why Establishing Paternity Matters

Under Utah law, a child born to unmarried parents does not automatically have a legal father. Establishing paternity creates a legally recognized relationship between a father and child, which benefits everyone involved.

Establishing paternity allows:

• A child to receive financial support
• Fathers to seek custody or visitation
• Access to medical history and benefits
• Eligibility for inheritance, insurance, and government benefits

Without legal paternity, a father has no enforceable parental rights, and a child may lose important protections.

Ways to Establish Paternity in Utah

Utah law provides several ways to establish paternity, depending on the circumstances.

1. Voluntary Declaration of Paternity

If both parents agree on the child’s father, they may sign a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity. This is often done at the hospital when the child is born, but it can also be completed later through the Utah Office of Vital Records.

Once properly signed and filed, this document has the same legal effect as a court order, unless it is later challenged.

2. Court-Ordered Paternity

If paternity is disputed or uncertain, either parent may file a paternity action in Utah family court. The court may order genetic (DNA) testing to determine biological parentage.

If testing confirms paternity, the court will issue an order establishing the legal father. The court may also address related issues such as:

• Child custody and visitation
• Child support
• Health insurance coverage

3. Presumption of Paternity

In certain cases, Utah law presumes a man to be the legal father, such as when:

• The child is born during a marriage
• The parents marry after the child’s birth and acknowledge paternity

These presumptions can sometimes be challenged, depending on the facts of the case.

How DNA Testing Works in Utah Paternity Cases

When paternity is disputed, courts rely on DNA testing. Genetic tests are highly accurate and usually require simple cheek swabs from the child and alleged father.

If the test shows a 99% or greater probability of paternity, the court will generally recognize the individual as the legal father.

Can Paternity Be Challenged in Utah?

Yes. In limited circumstances, paternity may be challenged—especially if fraud, mistake, or misrepresentation occurred. However, strict deadlines apply, and challenging paternity can become complex.

Legal guidance is critical if you believe paternity was established incorrectly.

Why Legal Guidance Is Important in Paternity Cases

Paternity cases involve more than biology. They impact long-term rights and responsibilities, including custody, visitation, and child support. Mistakes or delays can affect your child’s future and your legal standing.

A paternity attorney can:

• Explain your rights and options
• Handle court filings and deadlines
• Represent you in contested cases
• Help negotiate parenting and support arrangements

Paternity Attorney in Murray, Utah

At Veronica K. McDougal, P.C.., attorney Veronica McDougal provides compassionate and experienced representation in paternity cases throughout Murray and surrounding Utah communities. With over a decade of family law experience, she is committed to helping parents protect their rights while prioritizing the well-being of the child.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you need help establishing paternity or understanding your rights under Utah law, experienced legal guidance can make a meaningful difference.