Establishing Paternity in Arkansas

A man is the legal father if he and the mother sign an acknowledgment of paternity under the vital records law; once submitted to the Division of Vital Records it is a conclusive finding of paternity and a basis for child support and visitation orders, and the father's name is added to the birth certificate. The Department of Health offers paternity services in its offices, and hospitals and birthing centers take part. A signer may rescind by filing the form with the Division of Vital Records before the earlier of 60 days after signing or a court or administrative proceeding about the child in which the signer is a party. After that, it can be challenged only for fraud, duress or material mistake of fact. In a court paternity case, the court must order scientific (DNA) testing on either party's motion.