Establishing Parentage for Unmarried Parents in Washington

Summary Overview

When parents are not married, establishing legal parentage is a necessary first step before either parent can seek a parenting plan or child support order. Washington law provides several ways to establish parentage, each with different requirements and implications. Understanding this process is important for unmarried parents who want to secure their legal rights and responsibilities toward their child.

Acknowledgment of Paternity

In many cases, unmarried parents can establish parentage by signing a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity at the hospital or after a child's birth. This document, once filed, generally has the same legal effect as a court order establishing parentage. Because signing this acknowledgment has significant legal consequences, both parents should understand what they are agreeing to before signing.

Court Action to Establish Parentage

When parentage is disputed or was not established at birth, either parent, or in some cases the state, can file a parentage action in court. This process can often involve genetic testing to confirm biological parentage before the court enters an order. Once parentage is established through the court, the case typically proceeds to address parenting plans, residential schedules, and child support.

Rights and Responsibilities Once Parentage Is Established

Once legal parentage is confirmed, both parents generally have the same rights and responsibilities as if they had been married, including the ability to seek a parenting plan and the obligation to pay child support if appropriate. Establishing parentage also allows a parent to be listed on the child's birth certificate and to make decisions about the child's welfare.

Why Timing Matters

Delaying the process of establishing parentage can create complications, particularly if one parent later disputes the relationship or if a child's needs, such as health insurance or support, arise before parentage is confirmed. Addressing parentage early can help both parents plan for the child's future with clarity about their respective rights and obligations.

Establishing parentage is a foundational step for unmarried parents seeking to protect their relationship with their child. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we help unmarried parents throughout Washington establish parentage and pursue appropriate parenting plans and support orders. We offer free telephone case evaluations to discuss your situation.  Call today 425-800-0572