Putative Father Registries
National Council For Adoption believes that registries promote the best interests of children first, while seeking to balance the interests of adults involved when an adoption plan is being considered: biological mothers and fathers, and prospective adoptive parents. Registries seek to stabilize the adoption process to ensure that when an adoption takes place, a legal mechanism is in place for fathers to exercise their rights. Read More in Adoption Advocate No. 96 >>>
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
At any time before the birth of the child or within 30 days after
Information Required by Notice
- Father’s name, social security number, date of birth and current address
- Biological mother’s name, including all other names known to the father that may have been used by the biological mother, social security number, date of birth and address, if known
- Father’s current income and financial information by attaching a child support obligation income statement / affidavit form to be prescribed by regulations of the department
- Child’s name and place of birth, if known
- Possible date(s) of sexual intercourse
If Notice Not Filed
Irrevocable implied consent in any adoption proceeding occurs if notice is not timely filed
Procedure for Termination
Termination is automatic after the 30-day time period
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Any court(s) as needed
- Any person(s) upon an order showing good cause
Comments
Fathers must file a child support income statement or affidavit at time of registering. Find this document here.
Read more here.
Find Alabama registry here.
As of May 2022, Alaska does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers Are Identified
A reasonable investigation is conducted to assure that all persons entitled to notice are located and notified
Is Putative Father Entitles to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. The father is entitled to notice at least 20 days before the date of the hearing
How Notice is Given
Notice shall be given in the manner appropriate under rules of civil procedure for the service of process in a civil action. Notice by publication may not be given unless, for compelling reasons, the court orders it to be given.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings Upon Notice
N/A
Comments
Read more here.
Find more on Alaska paternity acknowledgement here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
At any time before the birth of the child or within 30 days after
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name and address
- Biological mother's name and last known address
- Birthdate or child or possible month and year of the expected birth of the child
If Notice Not Filed
- Waives right to be notified of any judicial hearing regarding the child's adoption and his consent to the adoption is not required
- An exception exists if father can show it was not possible to file within the timeframe and filed 30 days after it became possible
- Lack of knowledge of pregnancy is not an acceptable reason for failure to file
Procedure for Termination
- Father consents or waives his rights, or
- A diligent search of the registry has been conducted, with no finding of a matching father
Revocation of Notice of Intent
N/A
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Presiding court
- Division of Public Health Services
- Licensed adoption agency or attorney participating or assisting in a direct placement adoption
Comments
Father must show willingness and intent to support the child
Read more here.
Find Arizona registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
Prior to the birth of the child or at any time prior to the filing of a petition for adoption
Information Required by Notice
- Name, address, and Social Security number of any person who claims to be the father of a child for whom paternity is not presumed or has not been established by a court
- Biological mother's name, last address, and social security number, if known
- Name of child, if born, and location and date of birth, if known
- Date and time of receipt, which the division shall note on the written statement signed and acknowledged by registrant.
If Notice Not Filed
Rights are terminated when the father has not registered by the time the adoption petition was filed
Procedure for Termination
N/A
Revocation of Notice of Intent
- At any time signed and acknowledged by the registrant before a notary public
- Must submit a signed and notarized statement that, to the best of his knowledge, he is not the father or that the court has found someone other than the registrant to be the father
- Revocation is effective only after the birth of the child
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
Biological mother, child, Registrant, Department of Health and Human Services, Arkansas courts, Attorneys of records, Office of Child Support Enforcement
Comments
Father shall establish a significant custodial, personal, or financial relationship with the child before the putative father's rights attach.
Read more here.
Find Arkansas registry here.
As of July 2021, California does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Court shall cause an inquiry to be made of the biological mother and all other appropriate persons in pursuit of identifying the birth father
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice is given to every person identified as the natural father or a possible natural father at least 10 days before the date of the proceeding
How Notice is given
Notice shall be given to every person identified as the natural father or a possible natural father in the manner appropriate under rules of civil procedure. Notice by publication or posting is not required. If father cannot be located, court may issue order dispensing with notice to that father
How a Putatice Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Must file an action declaring the existence of a father child relationship within 30 days of service of the notice of the proceedings the birth of the child, whichever is later
Comments
Read more here.
As of July 2021, Colorado does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
An inquiry is made of the biological mother and any other appropriate person including:
- Whether the mother was married at the time of conception of the child or any time thereafter
- Whether the mother has received support payments or promises of support with respect to the child
- Whether any man has formally or informally acknowledged or declared his possible paternity to the child
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice is given to every person identified as the parent or possible parent in any manner appropriate
How Notice is Given
- Notice is given to every person identified as a birth parent or possible birth parent under the Colorado rules of juvenile procedure
- If no father has been identified, notice shall be provided to all possible parents by publication
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Must file a claim of paternity within 35 days after notice of termination proceedings
Comments
Read more here. (Page 378)
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The court shall cause notice of the hearings to be given to the father
Is Putative Father Entitled To Notice of Proceedings
Yes. The father is entitled to notice of hearing for termination of parental rights at least 10 days before the hearing of the termination proceeding if he:
- Is adjudicated to be the father
- Has been acknowledged in writing as the father
- Has contributed regularly to child support
- Has had his name attached to the birth certificate
- Has filed a claim for paternity; or
- Is named in the petition as father
How Notice is Given
The notice is given pursuant to the Connecticut rules of civil procedure:
- If the father is in state, service shall be by personal service or service at the usual place of abode; or
- If the father is out of the state, or service cannot be affected by personal service or service at the usual place of abode, service shall be given by registered or certified mail or publication
How A Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
The father may file a claim of paternity no later than 60 days after the date of notice of the termination proceedings
Comments
For more information on establishing parentage.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
At any time before the birth of the child or within 30 days after
Information Required By Notice
N/A
If Notice Not Filed
Irrevocable implied consent in any adoption proceeding occurs if notice is not timely filed
Procedure For Termination
Termination is automatic after the 30-day time period
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Any court(s) as needed
- Mother of the child who is subject of the registration
- Paternity registry in another state
- A party or the party's attorney of record in a proceeding under chapter 8 or in a proceeding for adoption of, or for termination of parental rights
- Licensed child-placing agency
- Support-enforcement agency
- An agency authorized by other law to receive the information
- Any person(s) upon an order showing good cause
- A person designated by the court
Comments
Father must file a child support income statement or affidavit at time of registering
The registrant should also register in another state if conception or birth occurred in the other state (§8-411)
Read more here.
Find Delaware Registry here.
As of July 2021, the District of Columbia does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The court will determine if a father has been given proper notice.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice in addition to a copy of the motion to terminate will be served upon the father.
How Notice is Given
Personal service shall be effected. If personal service cannot be effected, then notice shall be made constructively pursuant to the rules of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
N/A
Comments
Read more here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
- Any time before child's birth or prior to termination of parental rights
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name, address, date of birth and physical description
- Biological mother's name, address, date of birth, if known, and physical description
- Data, place and location of conception of the child, if known
- Name, date, and place of birth of child or estimated date of birth
If Notice Not Filed
- Rights are terminated with no need of further notice or consent when the father fails to file with the registry before the petition is filed for termination of parental rights or if the substantial support or relationship requirements have not been met
- If identity or location of parent is unknown, the court will conduct an inquiry
- A certificate must be issued stating that a diligent search has been made of the registry and that no matching fathers have been found
Procedure For Termination
A certificate must be issued stating that a diligent search has been made of the registry and that no matching fathers have been found
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time prior to the birth of the child in writing
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Petitioner
- Court involved in proceedings
- An adoption entity, upon filing of a request for a diligent search of the Florida Putative Father Registry in connection with the planned adoption of a child
- Birth mother, upon receipt of a notarized request for a copy of registry entry only
Comments
Child over 6 months:
- The father must have developed a substantial relationship with the child
- Supported the child financially; AND
- Visited or communicated regularly
Child under 6 months:
If he had actual knowledge of the pregnancy, the father must have paid for a fair share of the related expenses
Find Florida Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
- May register before or after the birth of the child
- Must file to legitimize the child within 30 days of receipt of termination notice
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name, address, and social security number
- Biological mother's name, address, and social security number
- Child's name, date of birth, and location of birth, if known
If Notice Not Filed
Rights are terminated if the father fails to register or show support for the child
Procedure For Termination
When the petitioner for the termination of parental rights provides a certificate stating that:
- The registry has been diligently but fruitlessly searched; and
- A father has not lived with, supported, or attempted to legitimate the child; THEN
It shall be presumed that the father is not entitled to notice of the adoption proceedings.
Revocation of Notice of Intent
May be rescinded:
- Prior to date of support order
- 60 days from date of signing acknowledgment
- After 60 days, rescission may only be changed in the court if there was fraud, duress, or mistake of fact
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- The governmental department, bureau, board, commission, agency or political subdivision of any State for purposes of locating an absent parent or putative father or to enforce his obligation of support, of enforcing a child custody determination, or of enforcing any State or Federal law with respect to the unlawful taking or restraint of a child
- A licensed child-placing agency, or a member of the Georgia State Bar requesting information to locate a biological father who is not a legal father to provide notice of adoption proceedings or proceedings to terminate rights of a biological father
- Department of Human Resources
Comments
A show of support is not necessary, but the registry requirement is replaced if the father has:
- Lived with the child
- Contributed support
- Made any attempt to legitimate the child; or
- Provided support or medical care for the biological mother
Find Georgia Registry here.
As of May 2022, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands do not have a state registry.
Read more here.
As of July 2021, Hawaii does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Through the due diligence of the biological mother.
If the biological mother files with the petition an affidavit representing that the identity or whereabouts of the father are unknown or not ascertainable, the court shall conduct a hearing to determine whether notice is required.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice shall be personally served at least 20 days prior to the hearing.
If the father is neither the legal, adjudicated, or presumed father, nor demonstrated a reasonable degree of interest, concern, or responsibility for the child, the court may enter a termination order without notice.
How Notice is Given
If personal service cannot be effected with the state, notice may be made as provided in §§ 634-23 or 634-24.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Must file action declaring parentage:
- Within 30 days after child's birth if child is relinquished for adoption during the 30 day period; or
- Any time prior to the execution of a valid consent to the child's adoption by the biological mother, or prior to placement with adoptive parents, but no later than three years after the child reaches the ago of majority
Comments
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May register before or after child's birth but before child is placed for adoption or proceeding to terminate biological mother's rights, whichever occurs first
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name and address
- Biological mother's name and last known address
- Child's birth date or probable month and year of expected birth
If Notice Not Filed
Failure to register will constitute abandonment of the child and shall be prima facie evidence of sufficient grounds to terminate rights
Procedure For Termination
State registrar of vital statistics will issue a certificate stating that diligent search has been made and no matching father has registered
Revocation of Notice of Intent
May file a notarized rescission of paternity acknowledgment with the vital statistics unit within the earlier of
• 60 days after the acknowledgment is filed; or
• the date of an administrative or judicial proceeding relating to the child
After the rescission period, an executed acknowledgment of paternity may be challenged only in court on the basis of fraud, duress, or material mistake of fact
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
Access to records can only be attained pursuant to the procedures set forth in Ch. 3, Title 9 of the Idaho Code
Comments
Father must show intent and willingness to support within his ability. Father must also move to legally establish paternity.
Read more here.
Fina Idaho Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
At any time before the birth of the child or within 30 days after
Information Required By Notice
- Father’s name, alias, social security number and date of birth
- Biological mother’s name, alias, social security number and date of birth
- Child’s name, gender, and place and date of birth, if known
- Any other information de]emed necessary by the Department of Children and Family Services
If Notice Not Filed
Barred from bringing or maintaining any action to assert any interest in the child, unless he proves by clear and convincing evidence that:
- It was not possible to register within the prescribed time period
- His failure to register was through no fault of his own; and
- He registered within 10 days after it became possible
Lack of knowlesge of pregnancy or birth is not an excuse for failure to register. Failure to timely register is deemed a waiver of right to notice of a hearing, consent to adoption and constitutes abandonment.
Procedure For Termination
Not addressed in statutes reviewed, however, rights may be terminated at the court's discretion if the father has not registered within the 30 days of birth
Revocation of Notice of Intent
N/A
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Prospective adoptive parents
- Biological mother
- Child welfare agency
- Attorney representing interested party
Comments
The registry shall not be used to notify a putative father who is the father as a result of criminal sexual abuse or assault
Read more here.
Find Illinois Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May register before the birth but must be filed within: (1) 30 days of the birth, or (2) by the earlier of the date of the adoption or termination of parental rights; whichever occurs later
- Putative father may register under subjection prior to child's birth
Information Required By Notice
- Father’s name, address, social security number, and date of birth
- Biological mother’s name, address, social security number and date of birth, if known
- Any other information known to the father, e.g., child’s name and date of birth
If Notice Not Filed
Failure to register according to the specified guidelines constitutes the father’s irrevocable and implied consent to the adoption
Procedure For Termination
N/A
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time by submitting a signed, notarized statement
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Father, biological mother and child, if named in registry
- Any party or attorney involved in the adoption
- Child placing agency
- Court presiding over the adoption
Comments
Read more here.
Find Indiana Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May file prior to the child's birth. Must be filed by the date of the filing of the petition for termination of rights
Information Required By Notice
- Father’s name, address, and social security number
- Biological mother’s name, address, and social security number
- Any other identification information requested by the Department
- Name of child and date and location of birth, if known
If Notice Not Filed
N/A
Procedure For Termination
N/A
Revocation of Notice of Intent
Information may be revoked by submission of a written statement signed and acknowledge by the registrant before a notary public. Revocation effective only following birth of child and nullifies the registration and the information provided by the registrant shall be expunged.
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Biological mother
- Court
- Department of Human Services
- Attorney to any party to adoption, termination of parental rights or paternity or support proceeding
- Child support recovery unit
- Any other person upon court order for good cause shown
Comments
Read more here.
To place your name on the the Registry, contact:
Vital Records Bureau
Iowa Department of Public Health
Lucas Building
321 East 12th
Des Moines, IA, 50319-0075
(515) 281-4944
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The court will determine by deposition, affidavit or hearing, the identity of the father or possible father.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice shall be given to every person identified as the father or possible father unless he has abandoned or neglected the child after knowledge of its birth.
How Notice is Given
Notice is served through personal service, certified mail (return receipt requested) or in any manner that the court may direct.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
He must appear at the termination hearing and claim custodial rights or his rights are terminated.
Revocation of Notice of Intent
May revoke the acknowledgment of paternity at any time until one year after the child's date of birth. If the filer was a minor at the time of acknowledgment of paternity, the action to revoke may be brought until one year after that person attains majority.
Must show that acknowledgment was based on fraud, duress (threat) or an important mistake of fact, unless the request is filed within 60 days of signing the acknowledgment or before any court hearing.
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Office providing IV-D program services upon request
Comments
Read more here.
To place your name on the the Registry, contact:
Kansas Putative Father Registry
Kansas Dept. of Social & Rehab Services
PO Box 497
Topeka, KS 66601-0497
(785) 296-3237
Information Required By Notice
- Registrant's name, date of birth, place of birth, place of residence, current address
- Mother's name, date of birth, place of birth, place of residence, and mailing address, if known
- Child's name, date of birth, place of birth, if known
- Any other information that the cabinet determines is necessary to access the information in the registry
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Putative father
- Mother
- Child
- Party or attorney of record in pending adoption
- Attorney representing prospective adoptive parents, petitioners in an adoption, mother, putative father, or child-placing agency
- Licensed child-placing agency
- Court presiding over pending adoption
Revocation of Notice of Intent
- May revoke registration at any time
Comments
Read more here.
Find Kentucky Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
- May file before or after child's birth
- Must file by date biological mother surrenders child
- If served with notice of intent to surrender, must fule notice of opposition within 15 days of service or for an unborn child, within 5 days of birth or 15 days of service of notice, whichever is later
Information Required By Notice
Father's name and address
If Notice Not Filed
A registered father has 15 days after recieving notice of adoption or surrender to file a notice of opposition
Procedure For Termination
Court declares termination for any of the following:
- Failure to register in a timely manner
- When registered, failure to file a notice of opposition
- Failure to show parental fitness
Revocation of Notice of Intent
An alleged or adjudicated father may execute an act of surrender at any time prior to the birth of the child or at any time after the birth. It shall be irrevocable upon execution. Note: Any surrender by a father earlier than the 5th day following the birth of the child shall not be irrevocable until the 5th day following the birth of the child.
May revoke acknowledgment of paternity within sixty days. Thereafter, the acknowledgment may be voided only upon proof, by clear and convincing evidence, that such act was induced by fraud, duress, material mistake of fact, or error, or that the alleged father who executed the authentic act of acknowledgment is not the biological father.
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Any court
- Authorized agencies
- Any person upon order of court for good cause shown
Comments
If biological mother identifies potential father, the child placing agency or individual to whom the child was surrendered must diligently search for the father and provide him with notice. If the father is unknown, a diligent effort must be made to identify the father, which includes:
- A declaration from the biological mother that the father is unknown
- A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate showing no identified father
- A certificate from the putative father registry indicating no person is registered as the child’s father
- A certificate from the court in the parish in which the child was born indicating no acknowledgement with respect to the child was recorded
Find Louisiana Registry here.
As of May 2022, Maine does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Acknowledgment of parentage must be signed after the birth of the child and filed with the State Registrar of Vital Statistics. Must be signed by the woman who gave birth to the child and by the person seeking to establish parentage of the child.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice of hearing must be given to the father.
How Notice is Given
The court where the affidavit of paternity if filed determines how notice is given
- If the father is satisfactorily identified, he is given personal notice; or
- If the father is unidentifiable, notice may be given by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the area where the biological mother became pregnant or where the father is most likely to be located
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Must petition for parental rights:
- Within 20 days after notice of intent to consent to adoption; or
- Within a longer period of time as ordered by the judge
Comments
Read more here.
As of July 2021, Maryland does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The court shall inquire into, and make findings of fact on the record as to the identity and current address of each parent.
If service cannot be effected, the court shall order service through notice by publication at least once in one or more newspapers in the county where the parent last resided, or if unknown, where the petition is filed.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Within 5 days after a petition for adoption of a child filed notice shall be given to each of the child's living parents who has not waived the right to notice.
How Notice is Given
Notice shall be served on a parent by personal service or certified mail to:
- Each address in records of a juvenile court within the 270 days immediately preceding the filing of the petition for guardianship; or
- Each address in the records of the local department within the immediately preceding the filing of the petition for guardianship, or
- The last address in records of a child support agency; or
- Each other address provided by the child's caregiver
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
The father must file a notice of objection to the adoption within the time stated in the show cause order.
He must acknowledge orally or in writing that he is the father and the biological mother must agree.
Failure to receive a response by a local department within 30 days shall be deemed a negative response.
Comments
Read more here, here and here.
More information on paternity establishment in Maryland is available here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
- Must file parental responsibility claim prior to biological mother’s surrender of child or termination of rights; or
- Must be adjudicated father; or
- Must be identified by biological mother as father
Information Required By Notice
Form for parental responsibility claim prescribed by Department of Social Services
If Notice Not Filed
Father is not entitled to notice of any proceeding concerning custody, guardianship or adoption of the child
Procedure For Termination
- Within 30 days of termination notice a father must file for adoption or custody
- If the father fails to file, he is not entitled to further notice of proceedings
- If father files, a court will determine his parental fitness and will then grant custody or will terminate his legal rights
Revocation of Notice of Intent
N/A
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Biological mother
- Person or agency receiving child for the purpose of adoption
Comments
Read more here.
Find Massachusets Registry here.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Father is identified by the biological mother or identifies himself by filing a notice of intent to claim paternity.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
In order to be given notice, a father must file a verified notice before a child's birth.
The biological mother may also request that a father be notified of his right to file a claim of paternity.
How Notice is Given
A notice of the biological mother's intent to release or consent is given in a manner consistent with the rules of the state.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Upon receiving notice, father must file claim of paternity before the expected date of confinement or before the birth of the child, whichever is later.
Comments
Read more here.
Find Michigan's Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
Must file no later than 30 days after the child's birth
Information Required By Notice
- Father’s name, alias, address, social security number, and date of birth.
- Biological mother’s name, alias, address, social security number, and date of birth
- Certified copy of court order from another state adjudicating putative father as father of child, if applicable
- Child’s name, gender, and actual or anticipated date of birth, if known
- Other information the Commissioner of Health deems necessary
If Notice Not Filed
If registered father fails to timely register is (i) barred from bringing or maintaining an action to assert any interest in the child during any adoption proceedings, (ii) is considered to have waived and surrendered any right to notice of any hearing for adoption, and (iii) is considered to have abandoned the child.
Failure to register is prima facie evidence to support termination unless he can prove by clear and convincing evidence that:
- it was not possible to file within the time period;
- his failure to register was through no fault of his own;
- he registered within 10 days of becoming able
A lack of knowledge of the pregnancy or birth is not an excuse for failing to register
Procedure For Termination
Registry must be searched before the adoption can be granted and father's rights terminated. Unregistered father's rights are automatically terminated.
Revocation of Notice of Intent
Father must file intent to claim parental rights from within 30 days of receipt of notice, unless good cause is shown in which case more time will be allowed
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Public authority responsible for child support enforcement
- Biological mother
- Attorney representing biological mother or adoptive parents
- Person who is required to search registry prior to adoption placement
Comments
In addition to a registered putative father, notice of hearing for adoption petition must also be given to:
- Child’s guardian;
- Person who appears on birth certificate as parent;
- Biological mother’s spouse;
- Person living with child; and
- Tribe, if child is native American
Read more here.
Find Minnesota Registry here.
As of July 2021, Mississippi does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Father files petition for determination of rights.
A petition for determination of rights may be used to determine the rights of alleged fathers whose identity is unknown or uncertain.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
In the case of a child born out of wedlock, the father shall not have any right to object to an adoption unless he demonstrates, within 30 days after burth, full commitment to being a father. The father shall then be deemed to be a parent for the purpose of consent/notice.
For unknown fathers, petition for determination of rights can be used to determine what, if any notice should be provided to the father.
How Notice is Given
If the identity of a father is unknown or uncertain, the court shall determine what, if any, notice can be and is to be given such persons.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
May file a petition for determination of rights (any time after the period ending 30 days after the birth of the child) a preliminary pleading to a petition for adoption.
Comments
Read more here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May file prior to the birth or within 15 days of the child's birth
Information Required By Notice
Father's name and address
If Notice Not Filed
Failure to timely file shall waive a father’s right to withhold consent to an adoption unless the father was led to believe through misrepresentation or fraud by the biological mother that (i) she was not pregnant when in fact she was, (ii) the pregnancy was terminated when in fact the baby was born, or (iii) after the birth the child died when in fact the child is alive. The father must then file a notice of intent to claim paternity within 15 days after learning of the misrepresentation
Procedure For Termination
Upon the court's determination
Revocation of Notice of Intent
May revoke the notice of intent to claim paternity at any time
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Any court or authorized agency
- Department of Social Services
- Child's parents
- An intermediary (attorney, physician or clergyman)
Comments
Lack of knowledge of pregnancy is not a viable excuse for failure to file.
Find Missouri Registry here. More information on paternity establishment in Missouri is available here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May be filed before birth but must file no later than 72 hours after the child's birth
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name, address, social security number, date of birth, and tribal affiliation, if applicable
- Biological mother's name, address, social security number, and date of birth, if known
- Child's name and place of birth or the approximate date and place of conception and expected delivery date
If Notice Not Filed
If the father has received personal notice or notice by publication, and he fails to attend the adoption hearing, his parental rights are terminated.
Fraudulent representation is not a defense for failure to register.
A putative father who resides in another state may contest an adoption prior to adoption decree if:
- the biological mother lived or resided in the father’s state at the time of conception or during pregnancy;
- the biological mother left the father’s state and concealed her whereabouts from the father;
- the father attempted to locate the biological mother but was unable to do so; and
- the father has complied with the other state’s laws to protect his parental rights
Procedure For Termination
Rights are terminated by the court only after the summons to notify the father has been fulfilled
Revocation of Notice of Intent
Unless a child support order has been issued, a father may revoke registration at any time
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- The Department of Health and Human Services or Child Support Enforcement Division or representative from each
- Adoption agency
- Prospective adoptive parents or their attorney
- Court presiding over the adoption
- Any women who is the subject of a registration
- Licensed child-placing agency
Comments
Father must meet minimal showing of having established a substantial relationship with the child at termination hearing. Find more information here.
Read more here.
Find Montana Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
Must file within 5 business days after the child's birth, within 5 business days after the receipt of notice of adoption proceedings, or within 5 business days after the last date of any published notice, whichever is earlier.
Information Required By Notice
A Request for Notification of Intended Adoption or a Notice of Objection to Adoption and Intent to Obtain Custody filed with the registry shall include:
- Father's name, address and social security number
- Biological mother's name and last known address
- Month and year of the birth or expected birth of the child
- The case name, court name, and location of any Nebraska court having jurisdiction over the custody of the child
- A statement by the father that he acknowledges liability for child support and medical expenses related to the pregnancy
If Notice Not Filed
If the putative father failed to timely file a Notice of Objection to Adoption and Intent to Obtain Custody with the putative father registry the right to object to the adoption is terminated.
Procedure For Termination
A putative father must object to a proposed adoption by filing a petition objecting to the adoption and seeking a determination of whether the objecting father's consent to the proposed adoption is required. The petition must be filed within 45 days after the later of the child's birth or the objecting father's receipt of notice.
Revocation of Notice of Intent
Any putative father who files a Request for Notification of Intended Adoption or a Notice with the registry may revoke such filing at any time. Upon receipt, the effect shall be as if no filing had ever been made.
Comments
Court Considers attempted legitimization and financial support in hearings to determine course of adoption proceedings
Read more here.
Find Nebraska Registry here.
As of May 2022, Nevada does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The court shall cause inquiry to be made of the biological mother and any other appropriate person.
Father may sign voluntary acknowledgement of paternity.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice must be given to every person identified as the natural father or a possible natural father.
If no father is identified after the inquiry, the court shall terminate the unknown father's rights.
How Notice is Given
If the father resides in Nevada and if his place of residence is known to the petitioner, then personal notice must be served.
If the place of residence of the father is not known, then notice is served to the nearest known relative of that person.
If the father resides out of state, has left the state, or cannot be found within the state the court may order service by publication.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
In order to intervene, the father must appear at the hearing and claim custodial rights.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May be filed prior to the birth of the child but shall be filed prior to the biological mother's parental rights being terminated
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name, address, and social security number
- Biological mother's name and address
- The child's name, date and place of birth, if known
- Father's affirmative intent to support the child
If Notice Not Filed
If father fails to register, he shall be barred from bringing an action to establish his paternity of the child and shall constitute an abandonment of the child and a waiver of any right to a notice of hearing in any adoption proceeding concerning the child
Procedure For Termination
Father's failure to request hearing to prove paternity within 30 days of notice results in forfeiture of parental rights and further notice
Revocation of Notice of Intent
May file rescission of paternity form within 60 days of the filing of an affidavit of paternity unless an administrative or judicial proceeding related to the child results in an earlier date.
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Department or licensed child placing agency
- The proposed adoptive parents or their attorney
Comments
Putative father also entitled to notice if registered in putative father registry of state where child was born
A person who is living with child or biological mother or financially supporting child or biological mother and holds himself out as child's father is entitled to notice
Read more here.
Find New Hampshire Registry here.
As of May 2022, New Jersey does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Through discreet inquiries by petitioners to parent's last known address, any known relations, friends, and current or former employers of the father, or using the party's name and last known or suspected address, to the local post office, the Division of Motor Vehicles, county welfare agency, the municipal police department, the Division of State Police, the county probation office, the Department of Correction, and any social service and law enforcement agencies known to have had contact with the party.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. The father is entitled to notice if within 120 days of the child's birth or prior to date of preliminary hearing (whichever occurs first), he has acknowledged paternity by amending the birth certificate or has filed a paternity action in court.
Notice is waived if the identity of the father cannot be determined.
How Notice is Given
- Personal notice is served
- If, after an adequate effort, personal notice cannot be effected because the whereabouts of father are unknown, notice is served via regular mail and by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the individual's last known address.
- The court will determine that an adequate effort has been made to serve notice if inquiries have been made as to the individual's whereabouts through former employers or other parties who may have such information
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
May file a written objection within 20 days of receiving notification if a resident or within 35 days if a nonresident
Comments
Read more here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May file an intent to claim paternity before or after the child's birth
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name and address
- Biological mother's name and any other identifying information requested by the Department of Health
- The child's name, if known, and any other identifying information requested by the Department of Health
If Notice Not Filed
N/A
Procedure For Termination
Court determined
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Any court
- State agency
- Department of Health
- Petitioner's attorney
- Mother of the child
- Any other person upon court order for good cause
Comments
Read more here.
Find New Mexico Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May file an intent to claim paternity before or after the child's birth
Information Required By Notice
Father's name and address
If Notice Not Filed
N/A
Procedure For Termination
Court determined
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Any court
- Authorized agency
- Any other person upon a court order for good cause
Comments
Father must appear in the adoption hearing to demonstrate an interest in the child
Read more here.
Find New York Registry here.
As of June 2022, North Carolina does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Biological or possible biological fathers are identified by biological mother. The putative father of any child born out of wedlock may apply by verified written petition to declare the child legitimate.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Fathers are entitled to notice, unless he executes consent, relinquishment, or notarized statement denying paternity or disclaiming interest in child; has had his rights legally terminated or has been judicially determined not to be a father. Notice also not required if father failed to file claim within 15 days of receiving pre-birth notice of intent to place child for adoption.
How Notice is Given
Notice shall be served in the manner consistent with state statute.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
If during the pre-birth period, father received notice indicating biological mother's intent to place child for adoption, he has 15 days to file a claim asserting that his consent is required.
Father must file a response to an adoption petition within 30 days after service of notice.
As of June 2022, North Dakota does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The court may make an inquiry of the biological mother to the extent necessary and appropriate to identify the biological or possible biological father.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. If the father meets the requirements if a presumed father or is identified after the inquiry, he is entitled to notice at least 20 days before the date of hearing.
If court is unable to identify the father after the inquiry, the unknown father's rights shall be terminated.
How Notice is Given
Notice must be given in the manner appropriate under rules of civil procedure for the service of process in a civil action.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings - Upon Notice
N/A
Comments
Read more here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
Must register no later than 30 days after the child's birth
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name, current address and telephone number
- Notice of petition to adopt the minor he claims as his child
- Biological mother's name
If Notice Not Filed
N/A
Procedure For Termination
N/A
Revocation of Notice of Intent
N/A
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Biological mother
- Agency
- Attorney arranging adoption of the child
Comments
Read more here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
Before or after the child's birth, the father may receive a Notice of Plan for Adoption (formal notice the biological mother is considering adoption). The father must complete the enclosed form within 30 days of service of the Notice.
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name, address, social security number, date of birth and tribal affiliation, if applicable
- Biological mother's name, address, social security number, and date of birth
- If registration is based on adjudication of this or another state's court, the (i) case number, (ii) name of court, (iii) date of order, judgment or decree, and (iv) copy of judgment, order, or decree
- Any other information known to father, including the child's name, date and place of birth or probable date of birth
If Notice Not Filed
The failure to file the form within 30 days of service of the Notice shall constitute a waiver of the right to receive further notice of any adoption proceedings or proceedings to terminate parental rights and a denial of interest in the minor what shall result in the court's termination of the father's parental rights to this minor and approval of adoption without his consent if an adoption proceeding is filed and approved by the court.
Procedure For Termination
Biological mother must file a petition to terminate parental rights of the father with county court:
- If father appears at the hearing, the court decides whether to terminate
- If father fails to appear, termination is automatic
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time by submitting a signed, notarized statement
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Any court
- Authorized agency
- Any person deemed necessary to receive such information by the Department of Human Services
- Any other person upon a court order for good cause
Comments
Department of Human Services or agency or attorney representing prospective adoptive parents may serve putative father with Notice of Plan for Adoption. If father fails to return within 30 days, he waives his rights to receive further notice, his parental rights may be terminated and he is deemed to consent to adoption.
Read more here.
Find Oklahoma Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
Must file a notice of the initiation of paternity adjudication proceedings prior to the child being placed in the physical custody of a person for the purpose of adoption
Information Required By Notice
- Full name and address of the child
- Date of birth, location of child or the place of conception, and probable birth month and year of child
- Full names, addresses and social security numbers of the child's alleged parents
If Notice Not Filed
Rights are terminated if the father does not:
- Initiate adjudication proceedings
- Fulfill support requirements; or
- Respond to notice of adoption proceedings by apearance in court
Procedure For Termination
Termination is automatic if father fails to meet required conditions.
The court can also decide whether the father is fit and willing to assume parental responsibility and will rule accordingly.
Revocation of Notice of Intent
Party of voluntary acknowledgement can rescind within the earlier of 60 days after filing or date of proceeding relating to the child.
After 60 days, it can only be challenged on grounds of duress, fraud, or mistake of fact.
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Person whose name appears on notice
- Person or agency with a legitimate interest in the parent child relationship including parties in the adoption process
Comments
If paternity is not established, father is entitled to notice if:
- The child has resided with him in the last 60 days; or
- He has provided support or tried to provide support in the last year
Read more here.
Find Oregon Registry here.
More information on search and notice requirements for fathers is available here.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The biological mother shall be a competent witness as to whether the presumptive or father is the natural father of the child.
Father may file an acknowledgement of paternity.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Identified fathers and those who filed acknowledgement of paternity are entitled to at least 10 days notice.
How Notice is Given
Notice is given through personal service or by registered mail to father's last known address or by other such means as the court may require.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Father must appear at the scheduled hearing or his parental rights may be terminated and he may lose his right to contest the adoption
Revocation of Notice of Intent
May rescind acknowledgment of paternity within the earlier of sixty days of a legal finding of paternity or the date of an proceeding related to the child. After 60 days, an acknowledgment may only be challenged in court on the basis of fraud, duress, or material mistake of fact.
Read more here.
Find Pennsylvania Registry here.
As of June 2022, Puerto Rico does not have a state registry.
As of June 2022, Rhode Island does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The court shall cause an inquiry to be made of the biological mother in an effort to identify the father.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Father is given notice is he is identified to the satisfaction of the court.
How Notice is Given
The court shall order a copy of the petition and order that copy to be served on him or her personally, if found in the state; and if not, notice of the petition for adoption shall be published once in any newspaper that the court directs.
If personal service is not possible because the father's whereabouts are unknown, the court shall determine whether there is a reasonable probability that publication of notice of the proceeding will lead to ascertainment of the father's identity or whereabouts. If the probability is sufficient the court may order publication.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
In order to intervene, the father must appear at the termination proceeding and claim rights to the child.
Read more here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
Must file by the time of filing petition for termination of parental rights or adoption. Myt be filed before or after birth.
Information Required By Notice
- Registrant's name, address, and date of birth
- Mother's name, and, if known, address and date of birth
- If known, child's name, place of birth, and date of birth
- Date claim is filed
If Notice Not Filed
Subject to 639-730(B), irrevocable waiver of father's right to notice of any proceedings pertaining to termination of parental rights and child's adoption
Procedure For Termination
N/A
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time. Revocation makes prior paternity claim null and void
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- State Department of Social Services
- Child placing agency or attorney assisting in adoption or termination proceeding
Comments
In addition to men who timely register, notice must be given to:
- An adjudicated father
- A man who was married to birth mother at time of conception
- A father who maintained substantial and continuous or repeated contact; substantially supported or lived with child placed for adoption more than 6 months after birth
- A man listed on birth certificate as father
- A man who is identified as father by birth mother in sworn statement
- A parent whom the court finds mentally incapable of giving consent or relinquishment and unlikely to provide minimally acceptable care
Read more here.
Find South Carolina Registry here.
As of June 2022, South Dakota does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
- Father publicly acknowledges child as his own and affirmatively asserts paternity within 60 days after child's birth
- Biological mother identifies father to trial judge or adoption officials prior to or during termination hearing
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Only fathers known or identified by the biological mother, or who have affirmatively asserted paternity within 60 days after the child's birth, are entitled to notice.
How Notice is Given
N/A
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
N/A
Comments
Read more here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
At any time before the birth of the child or within 30 days after.
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name, address and telephone number
- Biological mother's name, address and telephone number
- Child's name, address and telephone number, if known
- Current custodian's name, address and telephone number
- Any other information about child's whereabouts
Person filing written intent is responsible for notifying registry of any change in name, address or telephone number within 10 days of that change. Failure to do so constitutes waiver of right to notice.
If Notice Not Filed
Rights are terminated if father:
- Fails to register; or
- Registers but fail to file a complaint for parentage or intervene in the adoption proceedings within 30 days of receiving notice of adoption
Procedure For Termination
The court shall see failure to intervene as sufficient cause to terminate parental rights
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time in writing
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
May be used as evidence of any other party in any proceeding in which the parentage of a child may be relevant
Comments
In addition to registered fathers, the following rights must be terminated prior to adoption:
(i) father identified by biological mother
(ii) father is identified on birth certificate
(iii) father claimed to biological mother, adoptive parents or their attorney, or child placement agency that he is the father, provided that if he previously registered with the putative father registry, the registry rules regarding waiver apply
(iv) father is living with child and holding himself out as father; and
(v) father entered a permanency plan or plan of care
Find Tennessee Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May register prior to child's birth, but must register no later than the 31st day after the child's birth
Information Required By Notice
- Bureau of Vital Statistics shall provide notice forms
If Notice Not Filed
Failure to timely register may terminate father's rights without notice
Procedure For Termination
A certificate must be submitted stating a search of the registry has been conducted and that no father was found or that one has been given notice
Revocation of Notice of Intent
Any time in writing which as been signed and notarized
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Court or person designated by the court
- Biological mother
- Authorized agencies
- Licensed child-placing agency
- Support enforcement agency
- Party to party's attorney of record
- Registry of another state
Comments
Entitled to notice regardless of whether registered if:
(i) Established father-child relationship; or
(ii) Man commences paternity proceeding prior to termination of his parental rights
Read more here.
Find Texas Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May be before birth, but must do both of the following prior to biological mother's consent or relinquishment:
- initiate a paternity claim; and
- register with vital records (file notice of commencement of paternity proceedings)
Information Required By Notice
Department of Health shall provide notice forms which are available in the office of the county health department in each county
If Notice Not Filed
Waives right to further notice in connection with the adoption, forefits all rights in relation to the adoptee, and is barred from thereafter bringing or maintaining any action to assert any interest in the adoptee
Procedure For Termination
Must file a certificate from the office of vital records stating a search of the registry has been conducted and that no father was found or, if one has been found, the name of the person and date of filing.
Revocation of Notice of Intent
May remove a registration.
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
This information is confidential and may be released on request only to:
- A tribunal or a person designated by the tribunal
- The mother of the child who is the subject of the filing
- An agency authorized by other law to receive the information
- A licensed child-placing agency
- The Office of Recovery Services, the Office of the Attorney General, or a support-enforcement agency of another state or tribe
- A party or the party's attorney of record in a proceeding under this chapter or in a proceeding for adoption of, or for termination of parental rights regarding, a child who is the subject of the filing
- The registry of paternity in another state
Comments
With paternity claim, a father may file affidavit swearing relinquishment and must strictly comply with the requirements of the statute.
The registrant should also file in another state if conception or birth of the child occurred in the other state.
Read more here, here and here.
Find Utah Registry here.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Reasonable efforts are made to identify and notify the biological father, including inquiries of appropriate persons.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice must be served to any person who the petitioner knows is claiming to be or who is named as the father and whose paternity has not been judicially determined.
How Notice is Given
Notice shall be served within 30 days after a petition for adoption is filed.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Must file a paternity claim within 20 days after receiving notice of proceedings unless a paternity action is already pending.
Comments
Read more here, here and here.
Find Vermont Registry here.
As of June 2022, the Virgin Islands do not have a state registry.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
Before the birth of the child, or within 10 days after birth
Information Required By Notice
- Father's name, date of birth, social security number, driver's license number, state of issuance, address, telephone number, employer
- Biological mother's name, date or birth, ethnicity, address, and telephone number, if known
- State of conception of the child
- Place and date of birth of the child, if known
- Name and gender of the child, if known
Form advises that father should register in state of conception or birth, if different from residing state
If Notice Not Filed
Failure to timely register with the Virginia Birth Father Registry shall waive all rights of a man who is not acknowledged to be, presumed to be, or adjudicated the father to withhold consent to an adoption proceeding unless the man was led to believe through the birth mother's misrepresentation that (i) the pregnancy was terminated or the mother miscarried when in fact the baby was born or (ii) the child died when in fact the child is alive.
Upon discovery of the fraud, the father shall register within 10 days.
Lack of knowledge of pregnancy does not excuse failure to timely register except when identity of father is reasonably ascertainable in which case the father must be notified.
Procedure For Termination
N/A
Revocation of Notice of Intent
May file a withdrawal registration form
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- A court or person designated by the court
- Biological mother
- Agency authorized to receive such information
- Licensed child-placing agency
- Support enforcement agency
- Party or party's attorney of record
- Putative father registry of another state
Comments
A man will not prejudice any rights by failing to register if:
(i) a father-child relationship exists;
(ii) he commenced paternity proceeding prior to petition to accept or waive consent to adoption, petition for adoption or petition for termination of parental rights is filed
Read more here.
Find Virginia Registry here.
As of June 2022, Washington does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The petition for termination of the parent-child relationship shall identify any alleged father.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. Notice is required to be served to known alleged father.
How Notice is Given
If personal service can be given within the state, notice shall be served at least 20 days before the hearing date, or if out of state, 30 days before the hearing date.
If personal service cannot be given either in state or out of state, notice shall be served by a) first class and registered mail at least 30 days before the hearing to the person's last known address; and b) by publication at least once a week for three consecutive weeks with the first publication date at least 30 days before the hearing.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Failure to respond to the termination action within 20 days of service if served within the state; 30 days if served outside the state will result in the termination of his or her parent-child relationship with respect to the child.
Find more on Washington paternity acknowledgement here.
As of June 2022, West Virginia does not have a state registry.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
The father is identified through an affidavit signed by the biological mother.
The court shall inspect the affidavit, consider any additional evidence that should be produced, and determine whether the father can be identified.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
- Notice shall be served within 20 days after the petition for adoption is filed.
- Father is entitled to notice is he is claiming to be the father and his paternity has been established.
- Notice is also given to a father who has asserted or exercised parental rights and duties within 6 months of the child's birth if he knew the whereabouts of the child.
How Notice is Given
In the case of any person who is a nonresident or whose whereabouts are unknown, service shall be achieved:
- by personal service
- by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, to the person's last known address, with instructions to forward or
- by publication
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
Father must appear and defend his parental rights within 20 days of service.
How Putative Fathers are Identified
Biological mother may file a signed affidavit that:
- identifies any man who has lived in a familial relationship with the child and who may be the father of the child
- If biological mother states she knows the father, she must provide the father's name, age, and last known mailing address, and the last known mailing address of the father's employer
- if the biological mother does not know the identity of the father, she must explain why and provide a physical description
Father may file a declaration of interest in child before child's birth or within 14 days after the birth or within 21 days after notice of termination proceedings.
Is Putative Father Entitled to Notice of Proceedings
Yes. A father identified in the affidavit shall receive notice of his right to file a declaration of paternal interest:
- before the birth of the child,
- within 14 days after the birth of the child, or
- within 21 days after the date on which the notice is mailed, whichever is later
If the father is not identified in the affidavit, a person or persons alleged to the court to be the father, who may be the father based upon the statement of the biological mother or other information presented to the court, or who lives with the child are entitled to notice.
A father who consented to termination of his rights is not entitled to further notice.
A parents as a result of a sexual assault is not entitled to notice.
How Notice is Given
Personal service is required at least 7 days before the date of hearing.
If with reasonable diligence, a party cannot be served personally, service shall be made by publication.
How a Putative Father Intervenes in the Proceedings- Upon Notice
If parental rights are terminated, a notice to intent to pursue relief from the judgment must be filed within 30 days after judgment is entered.
Comments
Find Wisconsin Registry here.
Timeframe to File Notice of Intent to Claim Paternity
May file an intent to claim paternity before or after the child's birth
Information Required By Notice
Father's name and current address
If Notice Not Filed
A father who does not strictly and fully comply with each of the conditions provided is deemed to have waived and surrendered any right in relation to the child, including the right to notice of any judicial proceeding in connection with the adoption of the child, and his consent for the adoption is no longer required
Procedure For Termination
Automatic
Revocation of Notice of Intent
At any time
Who Can Access Information in Notice of Intent
- Any court
- Authorized agency
- Any person upon order of a good cause shown
Comments
Father must evidence an interest in and responsibility for the child within 30 days after receiving notice of the child's birth or pending birth
Read more here.
Find Wyoming Registry here.
