Q: AZ Paternity/Family Law Question/Concerns
A few months ago, a one-night-stand called out of the blue to tell me her 10 month old baby was mine. The man she was in a relationship with at the time of birth signed the birth certificate but apparently they are no longer together. We did a paternity test but I never actually saw any paperwork. She said she got a letter that said it was mine, I stupidly took her word for it. Went to visit the baby and bought some things. Kept up communication so I could see my daughter, but then Mom said she got another letter saying it wasn't actually mine, some kind of mix up and to leave her alone. If the baby is truly mine, I would like to be supportive financially and otherwise but I guess my question is can she come back in a few years and sue me for financial assistance after all this back and forth? This situation is affecting my current relationship with my fiance. Should I just let it go? Or do I need to seek an additional paternity test to prove whether or not the baby actually is mine?
A:
You asked, "I guess my question is can she come back in a few years and sue me for financial assistance after all this back and forth?" It's possible, but you'd have to be legally declared the Father first.
"This situation is affecting my current relationship with my fiance. Should I just let it go?" That's a decision you have to make. But be aware, there are time limits here because an Acknowledgment of Paternity was signed by another man. Your chance at being the child's legal parent may have come and gone, or that deadline may be approaching. If you have any doubt, you should consult with a lawyer right away.
"Or do I need to seek an additional paternity test to prove whether or not the baby actually is mine?" You should be 100% sure. I would get one for that reason.
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