What is Paternity Establishment?

Paternity gives both parents legal rights

Paternity means fatherhood. Paternity establishment is how a biological father gains legal rights to his child if he and the mother are not married.

If you and your partner are unmarried, you must establish paternity before the father’s name can be placed on the birth certificate.

Click below to learn more:

→ Watch our video for parents

→ Information for parents

→ Learn more - FAQs

The Importance of Paternity

Paternity benefits everyone!

Fathers get legal rights to their child and their name on the birth certificate

Mothers get help with responsibilities and important decisions

Children get all the benefits children of married parents do, including:

  • A relationship with both parents and a sense of identity

  • Knowledge of both families’ medical histories

  • Access to health insurance and benefits

→ Learn more about establishing paternity benefits

New parent checklist: Hold your newborn, Share your good news, Establish parentage. Establishing a legal relationship with your child gives them real benefits.

Ways to Establish Paternity

There are 2 ways to establish paternity in Lousiana:

  1. Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit: Complete and sign a voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) form. You can sign this form in three places:
        a) At the hospital: When your child is born – and it’s free! A hospital worker will explain everything as you fill out the form.
        b) At vital records: For a small fee, at the vital records office New Orleans or by mail.
        c) At your local child support office: A local office can assist with the form and genetic testing. An application and fee are required for services. 
  2. Court proceedings: File a paternity suit with the courts. Also, either parent can contact Child Support Enforcement (CSE) for services or a private attorney for assistance. CSE does not provide paternity-only services for applicants.

→ Learn more about voluntarily establishing paternity