Louisiana Paternity Establishment Program

Paternity means fatherhood. Paternity establishment is how a biological father gains legal rights to his child if he and the mother are not married.

If you and your partner are unmarried, you must establish paternity before the father’s name can be placed on the birth certificate.

Click below to learn more:

→ Watch our video for parents

The Importance of Paternity

Fathers get legal rights to their child and their name on the birth certificate

Mothers get help with responsibilities and important decisions

Children get all the benefits children of married parents do, including:

Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit: Complete and sign a voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) form. You can sign this form in three places:
a) At the hospital: When your child is born – and it’s free! A hospital worker will explain everything as you fill out the form.
b) At vital records: For a small fee, at the vital records office New Orleans or by mail.
c) At your local child support office: A local office can assist with the form and genetic testing. An application and fee are required for services.
Court proceedings: File a paternity suit with the courts. Also, either parent can contact Child Support Enforcement (CSE) for services or a private attorney for assistance. CSE does not provide paternity-only services for applicants.