In the process of establishing paternity the mother may be asked intimate questions about her relationship with the father. These questions may be avoided if the alleged father appears at the Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) for an interview and cooperates in the establishment of paternity.  In cases in which the alleged father fails to answer a legal complaint to establish paternity, the court can name him as the father by default.  If the alleged father contests paternity, genetic testing will be done. 

 

Paternity can also be established by the parents signing a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity at the time the baby is born, or at any time before the child turns 18 years old. Hospital staff will provide the necessary paperwork.  The San Luis Obispo County Department of Child Support Services is also available to assist with signing a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity. 

 

Contact information: Department of Child Support Services

Attention: Marilyn Kohout; 805-781-5750

1200 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, CA