As single mothers become more common, establishing paternity has become a critical legal concern for many families. In Kentucky, over 40% of children are born to unmarried parents. As such, proving who the father is becomes an important legal issue. If you couldn’t claim paternity when your child was born, you still have options.
The legal window for claiming paternity
Thankfully, you have a lengthy window to establish legally that you are the father of your child. There’s no strict legal deadline for filing a paternity action in Kentucky. You can establish paternity anytime, even after your child turns 18. However, waiting that long can affect your rights and even your child’s.
Why it’s better to act quickly
It’s generally best to claim paternity before or at your child’s birth. If that isn’t possible, try to do it within the first year. Aside from the emotional and familial benefits of knowing your child, quick action also offers the following advantages:
- Financial planning: You can plan early for child support and future expenses.
- Decision-making: You can help decide on your child’s healthcare, education and activities.
- Better co-parenting: Early action can help you build better communication and cooperation with your child’s mother.
- Prevent paternity disputes: You can avoid potential legal disputes or challenges later in life.
- Enforcement of rights: If disputes still arise, you have legal standing to enforce your parental rights.
In particular, if you and the child’s mother decide not to marry, establishing paternity will protect and enforce your rights if she relocates or remarries in the future.
Taking action for you and your child
Take note, all these benefits listed are on your side—there are many other benefits for your child. These include eligibility for benefits, access to crucial medical information and a more positive sense of identity or belonging. When you initiate paternity legal proceedings early, you not only secure your rights but also lay the foundation for a meaningful and lasting relationship with your kid.