The importance of establishing paternity

Unmarried couples who have a child together in Illinois must establish paternity in order for the father’s name to be listed on the birth certificate. There are numerous benefits for both the child and the father once paternity is ascertained, and it is an easy process as long as both partners are in agreement.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, the easiest way to establish paternity is to fill out a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form. This occurs when the biological parents both agree, and are available, to sign the form. A VAP form can be filled out at the hospital at the time of the birth or at a later time.  The other option is to contact the court and have it determine who the biological father of the child is.

Even if it is a process, it is worth legally naming the father. According to the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, the child has rights to a number of information and benefits. One is the child may be able to access medical information which is advantageous for a variety of reasons. Paternity can also help the child financially in the future. He or she is able to receive:

  • Life insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Potential inheritance
  • Social security benefits
  • Veteran’s benefits if the father was in the military 

Whether or not the biological father is required to pay child support is typically determined by the courts. Visitation rights and custody issues are also determined by a judge.

Read Our

Recent Blogs

If My Spouse Doesn’t Want a Divorce, Can I Still Get One?

The decision to file for divorce is incredibly difficult, with emotional, legal, and financial ramifications to consider. If you are contemplating divorce but your…

Read More
Can My Child Choose Which Parent to Live With in Illinois?

During a divorce, the question of which parent the child will live with is frequently raised. The answer is not straightforward, as various factors…

Read More
Will I Have to Pay Alimony If My Spouse Cheated in Illinois?

If your marriage is ending because your spouse engaged in an extramarital affair, you might be wondering whether their infidelity could affect the outcome…

Read More

Contact Us Today!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Group of attorneys