Establishing legal parentage (paternity) is the foundation for custody, visitation, and child support when parents aren’t married. Here’s how to establish parentage in California.
Why parentage matters
Until parentage is legally established, an unmarried father has no automatic custody or visitation rights, and child support can’t be ordered. Establishing it protects both the parent and the child.
How to establish it
Parents can sign a Voluntary Declaration of Parentage, or either parent can file a Petition to Establish Parental Relationship (FL-200), which can also request custody, visitation, and support.
What happens next
Once parentage is established, the court can issue custody and support orders. Genetic testing may be ordered if parentage is disputed.
How Curbside Legal helps
We prepare your parentage petition and related custody/support requests, court-ready. See family law pricing or start your intake.
Curbside Legal is a legal document preparation service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court fees are separate.