A Boise paternity attorney represents Idaho mothers, fathers, and presumed fathers in paternity actions under Idaho Code Title 7, Chapter 11. The Law Office of Michael J. Holmes handles voluntary acknowledgments, court-ordered paternity establishment, disestablishment, and the custody and child support orders that follow.

Why Paternity Matters

Until paternity is legally established, an unmarried father has no enforceable parental rights — no custody, no visitation, and no standing to make decisions for the child. Paternity establishment is also the gateway to child support and the child’s right to inherit, receive social security benefits, and access health insurance through the father’s plan.

Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity

The simplest path is a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP), signed by both parents (often at the hospital after birth) and filed with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. A VAP has the same legal effect as a court judgment of paternity once 60 days have passed without rescission.

Contested Paternity Actions

When paternity is disputed, an action is filed in Idaho district court. The court may order genetic testing under Idaho Code § 7-1116. Results showing a probability of paternity of 95% or higher create a rebuttable presumption of paternity.

Disestablishing Paternity

A man who has been adjudicated or acknowledged as a child’s father may petition to disestablish paternity under Idaho law where genetic testing demonstrates he is not the biological father, subject to strict procedural requirements and best-interests considerations.

Custody and Support Orders

Once paternity is established, the court can enter orders for custody and visitation and child support. We handle the entire paternity-to-parenting-plan process.

FAQ

How long do I have to bring a paternity action?

Generally a paternity action must be brought before the child reaches age 18, but specific deadlines depend on which party files and on prior acknowledgments. Earlier is better; delay can complicate the case.

Will the State help me establish paternity?

Yes — the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Child Support Services can assist with paternity establishment, but if custody or visitation is contested, you will benefit from independent counsel.

Related Family Law Topics

• Family Law Overview (Boise & Treasure Valley)
• Divorce
• Child Custody
• Child Support
• Spousal Support
• Civil Protection Orders
• Establishing Paternity
• Marital Agreements
• Guardianship

Talk to a Boise Family Law Attorney

Call (208) 696-2772 for a confidential consultation. We serve clients across Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Star, and the entire Treasure Valley.

Family law representation is offered exclusively in Idaho. Submitting a contact form does not create an attorney-client relationship.