Paternity law deals with the identity of a child's biological father.
Before a court can make any decisions about a child, the identity of both biological parents must be clear. A parent (often the mother) may file a paternity case to identify the father of a child. Once paternity is proven, the court can enter orders about custody, parenting time, and child support.
For more information about custody (Allocation of Parental Responsibilities) click here.
A Paternity case can be filed as part of a child support or custody case that has already been filed in court, or it can be filed as a new case. A new paternity case should be filed in the county where the child or the alleged father lives. In Denver County, paternity cases are filed at the Denver Juvenile Court.
Paternity, custody, and child support can be difficult and stressful processes. When intimate partner abuse has happened between parents, victims and their children can face safety issues in these court processes. We strongly encourage victims of intimate partner abuse to speak with a Navigator.
More information on other family law issues.
List of courts by county.
If you or someone you know needs help on this topic, click here for some Denver-based and national organizationsclick here for some Denver-based and national organizations that may help you.
To see Colorado statutes on paternity, click here.
