Establishing Paternity in Washington
How paternity is established in Washington: the voluntary acknowledgment form, court orders, genetic testing and deadlines.
Short answer: The woman who gave birth and an alleged genetic father (or an intended or presumed parent) may sign an acknowledgment of parentage, notarized or witnessed, before or after birth; RCW 26.26A.200, 26.26A.205, 26.26A.215, 26.26A.220, 26.26A.225, 26.26A.235, 26.26A.240, 26.26A.310
| Establishing paternity | The woman who gave birth and an alleged genetic father (or an intended or presumed parent) may sign an acknowledgment of parentage, notarized or witnessed, before or after birth; it is filed with the state registrar of vital statistics and is equivalent to a court adjudication. A signer may rescind by filing a notarized or witnessed rescission with the state registrar before the earlier of 60 days after it takes effect or the first court hearing about the child (including support). After that, and no later than four years after it takes effect, a signer may challenge it only for fraud, duress or material mistake of fact. In a court parentage case, the court must order genetic testing on a supported sworn request. The Department of Health may charge filing fees. |
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Where to get help in Washington
More Washington divorce & family law
- Getting a Marriage License in Washington
- Adopting a Child in Washington
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Washington
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- Child Custody Laws in Washington
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- Divorce Records in Washington
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Washington
- How to File for Divorce in Washington
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Washington
- All Washington divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you establish paternity in Washington?
The woman who gave birth and an alleged genetic father (or an intended or presumed parent) may sign an acknowledgment of parentage, notarized or witnessed, before or after birth; it is filed with the state registrar of vital statistics and is equivalent to a court adjudication. A signer may rescind by filing a notarized or witnessed rescission with the state registrar before the earlier of 60 days after it takes effect or the first court hearing about the child (including support). After that, and no later than four years after it takes effect, a signer may challenge it only for fraud, duress or material mistake of fact. In a court parentage case, the court must order genetic testing on a supported sworn request. The Department of Health may charge filing fees.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.