Helpful tips

Where do I go to file a paternity case?

Where do I go to file a paternity case?

Turn in your forms to the court clerk. He or she will keep the original and return the copies to you, stamped “Filed.” One copy is for you and the other is for the petitioner (the other parent). You will have to pay a filing fee. If you cannot afford the fee, you can ask for a fee waiver .

How to file custody / paternity papers self?

1. Fill out the forms . You have to fill out 3 forms to start your case, and another optional form if needed. 2. File the forms . Turn in your completed forms by mail, efiling, or in person to the Clerk of Court. 3. Serve Defendant. You must have a 3rd person hand-deliver a copy of the filed forms to the Defendant.

What happens after a paternity declaration is filed?

Click to see the sample form in Spanish. After a signed declaration of parentage or paternity is filed with the court, the judge can make orders for custody, visitation, and support. Click if you signed a voluntary declaration of parentage or paternity and now want the court to make custody, visitation, or child support orders. IMPORTANT!

Can a court order establish parentage or paternity?

A correctly completed and signed declaration of parentage or paternity filed with the Department of Child Support Services will have the same effect as a court order establishing parentage for the child. If your child does not live with you and a court action is filed, you may be ordered by the court to pay child support.

How to file child custody and paternity papers?

The Clerk of Court uses this information to open your case. Check the “child custody” box if you are primarily filing a custody case. Check the “paternity” box if you are primarily filing a paternity case. Do not check both. This form is REQUIRED. The complaint tells the judge and the other parent what kind of orders you want.

How much does it cost to file a paternity complaint?

After you fill out the papers above, you will need to file them with the family court to open up a case. The fee is $259 to file a Complaint for Custody, and $270 to file a Complaint for Paternity. The fee is payable by cash, money order, or most major credit/debit cards.

Can you file a motion to establish paternity?

You can file a Motion to Establish Paternity and/or for DNA Testing, and you can learn more about that process on the Temporary Orders page. This form is REQUIRED. This form tells the other parent that you have filed for custody/paternity.

When does the other parent have to file their own papers?

The other parent has 21 days after being served with the summons and complaint to file their own papers. Your next step will depend on what the other person does. FYI! If you change your mind about going to court and you want to stop your case, you can do so as long as the other parent has not filed anything.