Establishing Paternity in Michigan

For a child born outside marriage, the mother and the man (or, for assisted reproduction, the other intended parent) may sign an acknowledgment of parentage, notarized or witnessed by a qualifying disinterested adult (such as a hospital or court employee), at any time during the child's life. The original is filed with the state registrar, and a valid acknowledgment establishes parentage. The mother, acknowledged parent, an alleged father or the prosecuting attorney may file a court action to revoke an acknowledgment within 3 years after the child's birth or 1 year after signing, whichever is later, supported by an affidavit showing mistake of fact, newly discovered evidence, fraud, misrepresentation or duress. If the affidavit is sufficient, the court orders genetic testing, and the challenger must prove by clear and convincing evidence that the acknowledged parent is not the father.