Establishing Paternity and Custody for Unmarried Parents in Utah

In Utah, when a child is born to married parents, the husband is legally presumed to be the father. However, when a child is born outside of marriage, that legal "presumption" doesn't exist. To protect your parental rights—or to ensure your child receives the financial support they deserve—you must legally establish paternity through the District Court.

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How to Establish Paternity in Utah

Establishing a legal father-child relationship (paternity) can be handled in a few different ways:

• Voluntary Declaration of Paternity: Both parents sign a legal document (often at the hospital) declaring the father's identity.
• Administrative or Judicial Action: Paternity can be "adjudicated" in District Court.
• Genetic Testing: This can be done voluntarily or by court order to provide scientific proof of parentage.

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Why You Should File a Parentage Action

A Parentage Decree is a powerful legal tool. Unlike a simple birth certificate, a court order provides a roadmap for your child's future. Establishing paternity allows the court to address:

• Financial Support: Ensures the child is supported until adulthood, including health insurance and extracurricular costs.
• Predictable Parenting Plans: No more guessing games. A decree sets a stable visitation schedule, communication rules, and decision-making authority.
• Benefits & Heritage: Your child gains access to Social Security insurance, inheritances, veteran’s benefits, and a clear understanding of their medical history.

Note: Establishing paternity early prevents "re-entry" issues, where a parent tries to join a child's life after a long absence without a pre-set bond.

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Updating the Birth Certificate

The Utah Office of Vital Records and Statistics has very strict requirements for altering a birth certificate. Whether you are adding a father, removing one, or changing a child’s surname, our attorneys ensure the language in your Decree meets Utah’s specific legal codes.

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Protect Your Rights with an Experienced Paternity Attorney

While the state offers some online tools for divorce, there are very few resources for unmarried parents navigating the legal system. You don't have to do this alone.

Casey Hoyer has successfully handled hundreds of custody and paternity cases throughout Northern Utah. Whether you are a mother seeking support or a father seeking to protect your right to be in your child’s life, we are here to help.

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Contact Hoyer Law Firm Today

Don't leave your child's future to chance.

• Phone: (801) 901-0797
• Location: Northern Utah District Courts

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