Establishing paternity is a significant legal step in determining a father’s rights and responsibilities toward a child. However, there are cases where paternity is uncertain or disputed, requiring legal intervention to clarify parental obligations. Whether a father is questioning paternity or a mother is seeking to confirm biological parentage, understanding Utah’s legal process for paternity disputes is essential.
In Utah, paternity can be disputed when there is uncertainty about a child’s biological father. If a man is presumed to be the father—such as in cases where the child is born during a marriage—but he has reason to believe he is not the biological parent, he can challenge paternity through legal proceedings. Similarly, if an unmarried mother seeks to establish paternity but the alleged father denies it, she may need to initiate a paternity action to secure child support and parental responsibilities.
A paternity dispute is often resolved through DNA testing. Either parent can petition the court for a paternity test, which involves a simple and highly accurate genetic analysis to confirm or disprove biological parentage. If the test confirms paternity, the father gains legal rights and responsibilities, including child support obligations and the ability to seek custody or visitation. If the test disproves paternity, the court may remove the man’s legal obligations, though in some cases, a prior acknowledgment of paternity may still require further legal action to overturn.
If a father has previously signed a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity (VDP), he has a limited timeframe to contest it. In Utah, the declaration can be rescinded within 60 days of signing. Beyond that period, challenging paternity requires proving fraud, duress, or a significant mistake of fact. The legal process to undo established paternity can be complex and requires strong evidence to support the claim.
In cases where paternity remains unresolved, the court may establish temporary orders regarding child support and custody arrangements until a final determination is made. The child’s best interests remain the court’s priority, meaning that even if paternity is disputed, the court may take additional factors into account when determining custody, visitation, and financial support arrangements.
Disputing paternity is a serious legal matter that can impact parental rights and financial obligations. Whether you are challenging or seeking to establish paternity, taking legal action early and securing proper representation can help ensure a fair and legally sound resolution.
We know this blog may raise more questions than it answers. If you are involved in a paternity dispute in Utah, contact our firm today to discuss your legal options and protect your parental rights.