Parentage (Paternity) in California: What Documents Are Commonly Required
Important Disclaimer (Not Legal Advice)
Educational content only; not legal advice.
Why Parentage Filings Matter (In Plain Terms)
Parentage (sometimes called paternity) can impact custody, visitation, and support. People often begin with a simple question: “What paperwork do I need to start the process?”
The answer depends on your situation, but preparation usually starts with clear information and organized documents.
What to Gather Before Preparing Parentage Documents
1) Basic Party Information
Full legal names and contact details
Relationship to the child
Key dates (birth date, relevant timeline facts)
2) Child Information
Full name and birth details
Current living arrangement
Any existing orders or case numbers
3) Your Goal (Educational Framing)
Different filings may be used depending on what you’re requesting—custody/visitation orders, support orders, or parentage determination. You don’t need perfect legal language to start, but you should be clear about what outcome you’re seeking.
Common Attachments/Supporting Items
Depending on the matter:
Proof of income (if support will be involved)
Proposed parenting schedule (if custody/visitation is involved)
Any relevant documentation connected to the child’s care (school/medical coverage)
Mistakes That Create Delays
Incomplete party information
Missing existing case details
Vague schedule proposals
Inconsistent information across forms
Brewer Family Law Support (Document Preparation)
Brewer Family Law provides parentage document preparation support across California (all 58 counties), with strong presence in Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County, Kern County, and the Antelope Valley (Palmdale & Lancaster). Remote service is available statewide by phone and email.
Next Step
If you want help preparing an organized parentage filing packet, schedule a consultation. For legal advice about rights or strategy, consult a licensed California attorney.
