If I took on the role of father to a child born through an affair during my marriage. and I’m the only dad she knows but now I’m divorced, do I have to pay?
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If I took on the role of father to a child born through an affair during my marriage. and I’m the only dad she knows but now I’m divorced, do I have to pay?
I’m on the birth certificate but there’s no denial that I’m not her biological father. I just want to know if I can get the state off my back, since my ex-wife will likely be on foodstamps forever. I want to be there and support my child however I want it to be on my terms and between my ex and I. The biological father has made remarks about trying to come into my daughters life but we don’t know how serious he is. What should I do? What are my options?
Asked on July 18, 2012 under Family Law, Oregon
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
So long as you are designated on the minor child's birth certificate as her father where for all intents and purposes you are not the biological father you would be under the laws of all states in this country responsible for child support for this child. The only exception would be that you go through a process of DNA and blood testing showing that you are not the father of the child and that the other man is the biological father of this child.
In retrospect, contesting paternity for this minor could cause a lot of harm to her in the long run by you.
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