Legal Question in Family Law in Washington
New baby
My ex girlfriend just gave birth to my child. She refuses to let me sign the paternity affidavit, and she will not let me see the baby. I want to be a part of the child's life, but she says I have no rights. What do I do?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: New baby
You can petition to establish paternity. There are procedures that would compel an answer to the paternity issue (she can either sign the paternity affidavit with you or you can make a motion to have a DNA test done-the cost of which could be allocated to her if she refused to sign the paternity affidavit and you were found to be the father based on DNA test results). Within this action you could also establish a residential schedule and order of support.
Re: New baby
Following on what Mr. Steuart stated, the statutes that deal with your issue are found in chapter 26.26. RCW at http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=26.26. Not all the chapter will apply to your situation; but if you read the pertinent statutes, you might be able to understand the law on the matter yourself.