You absolutely have options if this is you, and you’re not alone, many mothers face this situation. If you know who the father is but he refuses to take responsibility without a paternity test, here’s what you can do to move forward legally, safely, and with clarity:
Get a Legal DNA Paternity Test!
To establish his legal obligation (for child support, custody, etc.), a court-admissible DNA test is usually required. You have two main paths:
Ask Him to Voluntarily Take a Test
If he agrees, you can:
Schedule a legal paternity test through a certified lab (not a home kit).
Make sure it’s chain-of-custody compliant so the results hold up in court.
Many labs, like DNA Paternity Testing, offer easy and affordable appointments nationwide.
File a Paternity Petition in Family Court
If he refuses to cooperate:
You can go to family or child support court and file a petition to establish paternity.
The court can then order a paternity test, and he’ll be legally required to comply.
What Happens After Paternity Is Proven?
Once paternity is legally established, the father may be ordered to pay child support. He will also be eligible for visitation or custody, depending on what’s best for the child. Finally, the father will be included in medical and legal decisions about the child. Even if he didn’t want to be involved initially, once legal fatherhood is confirmed, the law requires both parents to contribute to the child’s care.
What If He Still Refuses to Be Involved?
You cannot force a relationship, but you can enforce legal responsibility (support, benefits, etc.). If he doesn’t want visitation or custody, he can waive those rights—but he’s still obligated to help financially.
Other Support Options for You
If you’re raising your child without his help right now, look into:
