Paternity Rights and Responsibilities in Los Angeles

Paternity Rights and Responsibilities in Los Angeles: An Overview

In California, particularly in cities like Los Angeles with diverse and complex family dynamics, establishing paternity is often the first legal step unmarried parents take to define custody, visitation, and support rights.

If you’re not married when your child is born, the law doesn’t automatically recognize the father — even if he’s listed on the birth certificate. That means no legal rights to custody or visitation, and no obligation to provide financial support, unless paternity is formally established.

Whether you’re a father seeking legal recognition or a mother looking to ensure your child receives the support they deserve, our Los Angeles family law attorneys can help you take action quickly and confidently.

What Does Paternity Cover?

In L.A. County, establishing paternity creates a legal link between father and child — unlocking crucial rights and responsibilities, including:

• Custody and Visitation – Without legal paternity, a father cannot ask for parenting time through Los Angeles Family Court.
• Child Support – The court can’t order support from the father until paternity is legally determined.
• Access to Benefits – From health insurance to social security and inheritance rights, children benefit when both parents are legally recognized.
• Decision-Making Authority – Only legal parents can participate in medical, educational, and legal decisions for a child.

If you live in Los Angeles and want to build a meaningful, legal relationship with your child — or secure support from a parent — establishing paternity is the key.

How to Prepare for a Paternity Case in Los Angeles

Los Angeles family courts follow California state law, but procedures can vary slightly by courthouse — from Van Nuys to Stanley Mosk in Downtown L.A.

To prepare effectively:

• Collect relevant documents – Hospital records, texts, or acknowledgments of parentage can support your claim.
• Be ready for DNA testing – The court may require genetic testing to resolve contested cases.
• Know your goals – Are you seeking visitation? Child support? Full custody?
• Hire a local family law attorney – Someone familiar with L.A. courts can help you navigate forms, deadlines, and hearings with confidence.

In high-conflict or emotionally charged situations, preparation and legal guidance are especially critical.

Exploring the Types of Paternity Cases in Los Angeles

Depending on your circumstances, your paternity case may unfold in different ways:

• Voluntary Declarations – Many L.A. hospitals offer this form at birth. Once signed, it has the same effect as a court judgment — unless challenged.
• Petition to Establish Parental Relationship – Filed in L.A. Superior Court when one party won’t cooperate voluntarily.
• DNA Testing Ordered by the Court – Typically performed through certified labs under court supervision.
• Linked Custody/Support Actions – Paternity is often addressed during custody or child support filings, especially with the Los Angeles County Department of Child Support Services (L.A. DCSS).

Each case is unique. Our attorneys will help you choose the most strategic, efficient path based on your goals and legal standing.

Secure Your Rights and Your Child’s Future

Are you ready to take the first step toward legal fatherhood in Los Angeles? Whether you are a father seeking recognition and visitation or a mother ensuring your child receives the support they are entitled to, you don’t have to navigate the complex family court system alone. Our experienced attorneys are ready to provide the aggressive advocacy and compassionate guidance you need to finalize your parental relationship once and for all.

Taking the First Step Toward Legal Fatherhood

If you’re in Los Angeles and need to establish paternity — or protect yourself from a wrongful claim — you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Our experienced family law attorneys will guide you through:

• Filing or responding to a Petition to Establish Parental Relationship
• Understanding your rights during DNA testing and hearings
• Negotiating custody, visitation, or support once paternity is confirmed

We handle these sensitive cases with empathy, discretion, and a sharp focus on your child’s best interests.

Schedule a free consultation today — let’s secure your rights and your child’s future.

Common Questions About Paternity in Los Angeles

1. Does having my name on the birth certificate establish legal paternity?

In California, if you are not married to the child’s mother, simply being listed on the birth certificate does not grant you legal rights to custody or visitation. To be recognized as the legal father, you must either sign a Voluntary Declaration of Parentage (VDOP) or obtain a court order through a Petition to Establish Parental Relationship.

2. What is the Voluntary Declaration of Parentage (VDOP)?

The VDOP is a government form (Form CS 909) that unmarried parents can sign to establish legal parentage without a court hearing.

• Where to sign: Most parents sign this at the hospital after birth. It can also be signed later at a local Child Support Services office or a Notary Public.
• Legal Weight: Once filed with the California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS), it has the same legal power as a court judgment.

3. How do I start a paternity case in Los Angeles?

If one parent refuses to sign a VDOP, you must file a lawsuit in the Los Angeles Superior Court.

• Key Forms: You will need to file a Petition to Determine Parental Relationship (FL-200) and a Summons (FL-210).
• Location: Typically, you file in the courthouse serving the area where the child lives (e.g., the Stanley Mosk Courthouse downtown or the Van Nuys courthouse).

4. Can the court force a DNA test?

Yes. If paternity is contested, either parent can request a genetic test, or the judge can order one on their own. In Los Angeles, these tests are usually non-invasive cheek swabs. If the test results show a 99% or higher probability of paternity, the court will issue an order officially establishing the legal relationship.

5. If I am proven to be the father, will I automatically get 50/50 custody?

Not necessarily. While California law begins with the assumption that frequent and continuing contact with both parents is in the child’s “best interest,” the court evaluates several factors to determine the specific schedule. This includes the child’s health, safety, and welfare, as well as the nature of the existing bond with each parent.

6. What is the “Parentage Opportunity Program” (POP)?

The Parentage Opportunity Program (POP) is the administrative system that manages the Voluntary Declaration of Parentage. It is designed to decrease the time and money spent in court by allowing parents to establish a legal link voluntarily. In 2026, this program remains the fastest way for a father to gain the standing needed to file for visitation.

7. Can I rescind a Voluntary Declaration of Parentage?

Yes, but you have a very limited window. Either parent can cancel a VDOP by filing a Rescission form within 60 days of signing, provided no court orders for custody or support have been made yet. After 60 days, challenging parentage becomes significantly more difficult and usually requires proving fraud or a major mistake in a court of law.