Verification in progress. Statute references on this page are being confirmed against current law by a licensed attorney. Use the official sources listed below for the authoritative text.
Key takeaways
- Sign a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity when both parents agree.
- If disputed, file a paternity petition and request genetic testing.
- Include custody and parent-time requests in the petition.
Legal / educational information
Voluntary Declaration of Paternity
Utah's Office of Vital Records administers the voluntary declaration, often signed at the hospital. It has the effect of a paternity judgment after a rescission period. VERIFY: confirm the current statute text and section numbers with a licensed attorney before relying on this—Utah recodified its family-law statutes and section numbers have changed.
Legal / educational information
Court petition
A Utah paternity petition can determine paternity, custody, parent-time, and child support in one case. OCAP generates the forms.
Frequently asked questions
The birth certificate reflects the voluntary declaration when one is signed; the declaration—not the certificate—carries legal effect. Verify with Utah Vital Records.
Sources
A Father's Fight provides general educational information and personal experiences. It is not a law firm and this page is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney in your state. See our disclaimer and editorial policy.