Paternity

When a child is born to a married couple, that child is presumed to be the child of the married couple.  When a child is born outside of marriage paternity is legally established by a legal action by either parent.  If the father acknowledges the child determinations must be made regarding child support and custody.  Otherwise, a DNA test must be performed to establish paternity, followed by determinations of custody and support.  Even if a man is not the biological father of a child he can be held responsible for child support if he has acknowledged and supported the child, the State will not relieve a party of support obligations unless there is another party established to fulfill the obligation (via adoption or another paternity action). See Florida Statute '742.011. 

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