Our Blogs

Imagine waking up one day to discover you’re being asked to prove paternity for a child you didn’t know existed. It’s a scenario no one plans for, yet it happens more often than you might think. In Colorado, unexpected paternity claims can arise from past relationships, casual encounters, or even misunderstandings. These claims can turn your life upside down, leading to legal obligations, emotional stress, and financial responsibilities.

At The Law Office of Andrew Bryant, our Colorado family law attorneys are dedicated to helping clients like you understand the process and fight for a fair outcome. Get in touch with us now to take charge of your case and secure your future.

Understanding Colorado’s Paternity Laws

In Colorado, establishing paternity involves several legal steps. Here’s how the process typically works:

●      Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP) –  Both parents can sign this document to confirm paternity. However, signing this legally binds you as the father and opens the door to child support and custody arrangements. Don’t sign anything without evidence if you’re unsure of your paternity.

●      Genetic Testing – Genetic testing is often used if there’s a dispute about paternity. Colorado courts can order DNA tests to establish biological fatherhood with a high degree of accuracy.

●      Court Order – If paternity is contested, the court may issue an order after reviewing evidence, such as genetic test results.

Your Rights and Responsibilities Once Paternity Is Established

Once paternity is established, it carries both rights and responsibilities. On the responsibility side, child support is often the first legal obligation imposed. Colorado uses a formula based on income, custody arrangements, and the child’s needs to determine child support amounts.

However, establishing paternity also gives you rights. You may pursue custody or visitation, ensuring you play an active role in your child’s life. Many fathers are unaware that they can negotiate custody arrangements or even contest child support amounts if they believe the calculations are unfair.

It’s important to approach this stage with clarity and assertiveness. Understanding your obligations is vital, but so is knowing how to advocate for your rights as a father.

What to Do If You Receive an Unexpected Paternity Claim

Respond Promptly to Any Legal Notices

Ignoring legal documents won’t make them disappear—it can lead to a default judgment against you. Even if you’re unsure what to do, address the notice immediately to avoid losing your right to respond.

Stay Calm and Avoid Emotional Reactions

Paternity claims can bring up emotions like anger or confusion, but reacting impulsively can harm your case. Take time to gather facts before engaging with the other party.

Request Genetic Testing

If you’re uncertain about paternity, you have the right to request genetic testing. Courts in Colorado rely on DNA results, which are highly accurate, to confirm biological fatherhood.

Do Not Sign Anything Without Proof

You might feel pressured to sign a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity, but doing so without confirmation can create legal obligations like child support, even if you aren’t the biological father.

Avoid Making Payments or Agreements Until Paternity Is Established

Making payments or informal agreements before legal confirmation can be seen as an admission of paternity and complicate your case.

Gather and Preserve Evidence

Keep records of communication, timelines, or other details that could support your case. Solid evidence can be critical if you believe the claim is false.

Be Proactive About Your Rights

If paternity is established, you can pursue custody or visitation to maintain a meaningful relationship with your child.

Seek Legal Help from a Colorado Family Lawyer

Unexpected paternity claims can leave you feeling uncertain and overwhelmed. Whether you’re seeking to confirm or contest paternity, address child support concerns, or establish your parental rights, our Colorado family lawyers stand by your side every step of the way. Let the Andrew Bryant Law Firm be your trusted partner in resolving your paternity case. Call us at 719-634-7353 or reach out to us online and take the first step toward resolving your case.