Paternity | Seattle Divorce Services

7 Important Facts to Know Before You Sign an Acknowledgement of Parentage in Washington

While parentage is presumed in many cases, there are still various circumstances in which a father might not be legally recognized as his child’s parent under Washington law. For fathers who are not presumed to be their child’s parent, signing an Acknowledgment of Parentage is one option for legally...

When is Paternity Presumed in Washington (and What if It Isn’t)?

Under Washington law, paternity is presumed in certain circumstances. When paternity is presumed, no further action is required to legally identify the child’s father. However, there are also certain circumstances in which paternity is not presumed, and when this is the case, one or both parents mus...

Dispelling 7 Common Myths About Paternity in Washington State

Paternity is a significant legal and emotional issue, often surrounded by misunderstandings and myths. Whether you're a father seeking to establish parental rights, a mother looking to secure child support, or a child needing clarity about parentage, understanding the truth about paternity is essent...

Establishing Paternity in Washington – Understand Your Options

While it may seem obvious, paternity establishes very important rights such as the right of a father to custody and visitation of his child. It also establishes important obligations, such as providing support, both financial and emotional. Unfortunately, paternity is rarely an issue until there...