In Nebraska, couples who share a child but are not married to one another must first establish paternity to enforce the biological father’s paternal rights. If unmarried fathers do not take this measure using the proper process, they will have no legal grounds to file for child custody, visitation and child support.
What if both parents want to establish paternity?
If an unmarried couple is amicable in establishing paternity for their newborn child, they can ask their medical provider at the hospital to assist them with the “Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity” form. Both parties must complete the form and sign it in the presence of a notary public.
Once finished, they must submit the original form to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. This department then adds the father’s name to the child’s birth certificate. This formally establishes their parental relationship with their child without going to court.
What are the benefits of paternity establishment for fathers?
For fathers who aspire to be active dads in their children’s lives, establishing paternity offers many benefits. Aside from gaining legal rights that would allow them to seek court orders for custody, parenting time and child support, their children will also gain the right to their inheritance, health insurance and social security benefits.
By taking time to learn about paternity establishment in Nebraska, unmarried parents can become more familiar with the legal processes and take measures that can help them seek financial support for the upbringing of their child or gain rights to be their child’s dad.