Question 1

How is paternity established in Nevada?

Accepted Answer

Paternity can be established voluntarily by both parents signing an acknowledgment of paternity, often at the hospital when the child is born, or through a court action that may involve genetic testing when parentage is disputed or one parent will not cooperate.

Question 2

Why does establishing paternity matter?

Accepted Answer

Legal paternity is the foundation for a father's custody and visitation rights and a child's right to support, inheritance, and access to benefits like health insurance and Social Security. Without established paternity, an unmarried father generally has no enforceable custody rights.

Question 3

Can I get a paternity test if the mother refuses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If a mother will not cooperate with voluntary testing, a court action can be filed to establish paternity, and the court can order genetic testing as part of that process.

Question 4

What rights does an unmarried father have before paternity is established?

Accepted Answer

Until paternity is legally established, an unmarried father generally has no enforceable right to custody or visitation, even if he is the biological parent. Establishing paternity is typically the necessary first step before those rights can be pursued.

Question 5

Can paternity be challenged after it's been established?

Accepted Answer

In certain circumstances, such as fraud, mistake, or newly discovered genetic evidence, a previously established paternity determination may be challenged, though there are time limits and legal standards that apply to these cases.

Question 6

Does establishing paternity automatically set a custody schedule?

Accepted Answer

No. Establishing paternity confirms legal parentage, but custody and parenting time must typically be addressed separately, either by agreement between the parents or through a court order.

Question 7

Will establishing paternity affect child support?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once paternity is legally established, either parent can request a child support order, and the legal father becomes responsible for support in accordance with Nevada's child support guidelines.