Paternity Establishment

Father with child in baby carrier

Being the legal father is called paternity. When a biological father and the mother are not married, setting paternity is the way to make him the legal father of his child. It can happen before the child is 23 years old, even if the other parent lives in another state or country.

For unmarried parents in Ohio, paternity can be established in one of three ways:

  1. Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit
  2. Genetic Testing
  3. Court Order of Paternity

Please contact us to enroll in child support services or for more information.  You may also visit Ohio Central Paternity Registry to learn more about paternity establishment.

Genetic Testing at the CSEA
Those scheduled for genetic testing will receive a notice in the mail with the date and time to come to the CSEA. If you need to change the date or time, please contact us as soon as possible before your appointment to reschedule.  

Attending is important. Once paternity is established by the CSEA, the father's name will be added to the birth certificate. If you wish to change the last name of the child, please notify our staff before your testing.

To prepare for your appointment, please:

  • Do not eat or drink 30 minutes before your appointment.
  • Have a photo ID ready.
  • The child(ren) indicated on your notice must attend and complete testing.
  • Only the person or persons being tested will be allowed in the Genetic Testing area.
  • Arrive on time. Plan for transportation and parking to our downtown location
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