What is the time limit to establish paternity in Pennsylvania?

Full question:

I am pregnant with my husband’s child, but my husband refuses to accept the paternity. I am planning to file a petition in the court for establishing the paternity of this child. Under Pennsylvania law, is there a time period within which I am required to file a petition for establishing the paternity?

  • Category: Paternity
  • Subcategory: Court Action
  • Date:
  • State: Pennsylvania

Answer:

In Pennsylvania, you must file a petition to establish paternity before your child turns eighteen. According to 23 Pa.C.S. § 4343, an action to establish paternity for a child born out of wedlock must be initiated within eighteen years from the child's birth.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Yes, in Pennsylvania, a court can order a man to take a paternity test if there is a dispute about the child's paternity. This is often done to establish legal rights and responsibilities regarding the child. If the man refuses to comply with the court's order, it may lead to legal consequences, including a presumption of paternity against him. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*