Legal paternity

Legal paternity is the recognized legal relationship between a father and a child, established through formal processes or legal documentation. It confirms the father's rights and responsibilities, such as child support and decision-making. Legal paternity can be determined voluntarily, through agreement, or involuntarily, via court order or biological evidence like DNA testing. Establishing legal paternity ensures the child's legal rights to inheritance, benefits, and support are protected, and clarifies parental responsibilities for both parties.