Maryland requires that unmarried persons whom which is child is born sign an affidavit of parentage. The affidavit of parentage is usually signed at the time of the child’s birth. If no affidavit of parentage is signed, the court must establish paternity by having a paternity test administered or in the alternative, the parent can acknowledge through the court that he is the father of the child. There is a presumption that when parentage is established a duty to support the child up until he/she turns 18. The right to receive child support is the child’s right and not the right of a parent. Neither parent has the right to waive or forgive the right of a child to receive child support. In certain situations, The Maryland Department of Child Support Enforcement can go after the non-custodial parent when the custodial parent applies for certain state benefits. Useful websites that further explain the process of establishing paternity and child support:
Paternity Establishment – Maryland Department of Human Services
Child Support | Maryland Courts (mdcourts.gov)
Paternity | The Maryland People’s Law Library (peoples-law.org)
Maryland Paternity Law – Paternity (uslegal.com)
If you are the custodial or non-custodial parent and have an issue relating to establishing paternity or child support, the Law Office of Lynndolyn Mitchell PC is exceptionally qualified to represent you in Maryland or The Commonwealth of Virginia.
