What is required for establishing paternity in Illinois?

Establishing paternity in Illinois involves multiple avenues that can be utilized to ensure that a father is legally recognized as the parent of a child.

Acknowledgment by the father is a straightforward method, as it can be established through a voluntary acknowledgment form, which both parents sign, typically at the hospital after the child’s birth. This form serves as an official declaration of paternity.

In addition to voluntary acknowledgment, a court order can also establish paternity, particularly in cases where there are disputes regarding parentage or when the acknowledgment is contested. A judge has the authority to determine paternity through legal proceedings, which can include evaluating evidence presented by both parties.

Genetic testing serves as a scientific method to determine paternity, especially when there is uncertainty or disagreement about a father's identity. DNA testing can effectively establish a biological relationship and is often used when legal or administrative acknowledgments are insufficient.

Therefore, all these methods—acknowledgment by the father, a court order, and genetic testing—are part of the processes available in Illinois for establishing paternity, making the most comprehensive choice the correct one.