Experienced Paternity Lawyer for Your Legal Needs

If a mother is married when her baby is born, or if she was married when she became pregnant, Michigan law automatically decides that her husband is the legal father. 

• How it works: No extra paperwork or tests are needed. The husband's name is put on the birth certificate automatically.

If the parents are not married, but they are both 100% sure who the biological father is, they can sign a paper called an Affidavit of Parentage (AOP). 

• How it works: This form is usually signed at the hospital right after birth, but it can be signed and notarized later. 
• Important Note: Signing this form is completely voluntary. Once signed, both parents give up their right to ask for a DNA test. While these can be revoked, there is a significant legal battle to do so. 

 If parents are not married and there is a disagreement or uncertainty about who the biological father is, someone must file a paternity lawsuit in court.

• Who can file: The mother, the alleged father, or even the state's prosecuting attorney (if the mother receives state assistance) can start this case. 
• How it works: The court will order a DNA test (using a quick cheek swab). If the test proves the man is the biological father, the judge will sign an Order of Filiation, making him the legal father. 

 Paternity can also be established through adoption. 

• How it works: If another man (like a stepfather) adopts the child with the permission of the biological parents, he becomes the child's legal father. This completely replaces any previous legal father.