Paternity Question

Question

Single mama of twins, currently pregnant and they are due next month. I need help with how to decide if I should or shouldn’t put the fathers name on the birth certificate. I’m really stuck on making a decision & if I were to decide not to put him on, do child support and other benefits get affected?

Answer

The decision to place the father’s name on the birth certificate is a personal choice and there is no right or wrong answer.  Maryland follows the best interest of the child standard and regardless of the decision made, the obligation of the Father to support his child will not change.  The process to establish child support is made easier if an Affidavit of Parentage is completed but it is not required.  To the best extent possible, every child deserves the love and support of both parents.

About the Author

Our legal expert today is Matthew Bernhardt is an attorney and partner with Council Baradel. Matthew’s practice focuses on plaintiff’s personal injury and domestic relations, but he has extensive trial experience in both civil and criminal defense matters and maintains a well-rounded legal practice that includes serving as general counsel for businesses in the local community.

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