Establishing Paternity in Arizona: A Comprehensive Guide
Importance of Paternity Establishment
Paternity establishment is crucial in ensuring legal recognition of a father for a child, particularly when the parents are unmarried. This legal recognition is a prerequisite before enforcing or establishing any child support court orders. In Arizona, the Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) facilitates the Hospital Paternity Program (HPP), a collaborative initiative with hospitals, birthing entities, and the Arizona Bureau of Vital Records.
Ways to Establish Paternity
1. Acknowledgment of Paternity Form
At the Hospital: Parents can sign an Acknowledgment of Paternity form available at all hospitals and birthing centers. This form, completed after the child's birth, is a swift way to legally establish paternity with the assistance of nurses and birth recorders.
DCSS Office Visit: Both parents can visit a DCSS office to fill out and sign the Voluntary Affidavit Acknowledging Paternity form. This form is processed by DCSS through the HPP to establish paternity officially.
Court Filing: A Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity, signed by both parents, can be filed with the court or an administrative agency, providing a legal basis for parentage.
Vital Records Offices: The Acknowledgment of Paternity form is also available at all Vital Records offices.
2. Court Hearing
If one parent is uncooperative in paternity establishment through DCSS, the case may be referred to the Assistant Attorney General’s Office for a court hearing. This legal process leads to the establishment of paternity and a subsequent child support order.
Genetic Testing
When paternity is uncertain, genetic testing may be necessary to confirm the father's identity. DCSS covers this cost until paternity is established. Once confirmed, the father is responsible for the $51.00 cost per individual (mother, father, and child).
Benefits of Establishing Paternity
Access to Government Programs:
Social Security and other government assistance programs become accessible.
Insurance Benefits:
Health and life insurance coverage becomes available for the child.
Medical History:
Comprehensive medical history for both sides of the family can be obtained.
Survivor’s Benefits:
In the unfortunate event of a parent's demise, survivor’s benefits are applicable.
Identity and Daily Involvement:
The child gains a sense of identity, and both parents can actively participate in the child’s daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can paternity be established through genetic testing?
Yes, if paternity is uncertain, genetic testing may be needed, and DCSS covers the initial cost.
What happens if one parent is uncooperative?
If uncooperative, the case may be referred to the Assistant Attorney General’s Office for a court hearing to establish paternity and child support.
How much does genetic testing cost?
The cost of genetic testing is $x each for the mother, father, and child, and the responsibility shifts to the confirmed father.
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