Establishing Legal Fatherhood. Under Texas law, a child born to parents who are not married has no legal father. There is a difference between a biological father and a legal father. A representative of the Office of the Attorney General can explain the process as well as the rights and responsibilities of legal fatherhood. If you are a custodial parent on public assistance or Medicaid, you will be automatically referred to our office by the Texas Department of Human Resources.
Every baby needs and deserves emotional and financial support and care from two parents.
Even though your child may be well provided for now, there may be a time in the future when when your child would benefit from having a legal father. Parents can establish paternity by signing an AOP which establishes a legal finding of paternity. The AOP can be signed at the hospital when the baby is born or later at the local birth registrar or child support office. Your baby might be entitled to Social Security or veteran's benefits, including health care or money through these programs. Establishing paternity ensures that your child will be eligible for these benefits.