reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8 - Uniform Law on Paternity › Section 15-8-26. - [Repealed.]

§ 15-8-26. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 185, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 1, effective January 1, 2021; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 1, effective January 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8 - Uniform Law on Paternity › Section 15-8-27. - [Repealed.]

§ 15-8-27. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 165, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 236, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 1, effective January 1, 2021; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 1, effective January 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8 - Uniform Law on Paternity › Section 15-8-28. - [Repealed.]

§ 15-8-28. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 170, § 3; Repealed by P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 1, effective January 1, 2021; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 1, effective January 1, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-101. - Short title.

§ 15-8.1-101. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island Uniform Parentage Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-103. - Scope and application.

§ 15-8.1-103. Scope and application.
(a)
This chapter applies to an adjudication and determination of parentage in the state of Rhode Island.
(b)
The court shall apply the law of the state of Rhode Island to adjudicate parentage.
(c)
This chapter does not create, enlarge, or diminish parental rights or responsibilities under other laws of the state of Rhode Island or the equitable powers of the courts, except as provided in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-104. - Parentage proceeding.

§ 15-8.1-104. Parentage proceeding.
(a)
A proceeding to adjudicate the parentage of a child shall be maintained in accordance with this chapter and with the family court rules of domestic relations procedure and/or the rules of juvenile proceedings, except that proceedings for orders of parentage, pursuant to § 15-8.1-804, may be maintained in accordance with the superior court rules of civil procedure.
(b)
If a complaint is brought by the office of child support services, the complaint shall be accompanied by an affidavit of the parent whose rights have been assigned. In cases where the assignor is not a genetic parent or is a genetic parent who refuses to provide an affidavit, the affidavit may be submitted by the office of child support services, but the affidavit alone shall not support a default judgment on the issue of parentage.
(c)
Original actions to adjudicate parentage may be commenced in the family court, except that proceedings for orders of parentage under § 15-8.1-804, may be commenced in either the family court or the superior court.
(d)
There shall be no right to a jury trial in an action to determine parentage.
(e)
An individual who is a party to a parentage action shall disclose that individual’s social security number to the court. The social security number of an individual subject to a parentage adjudication shall be placed in the court records relating to the adjudication. The court shall disclose an individual’s social security number to the office of child support.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-105. - Standing to maintain proceeding.

§ 15-8.1-105. Standing to maintain proceeding.
(a)
Subject to other provisions of this chapter, a proceeding to adjudicate parentage may be maintained by:
(1)
The child;
(2)
The individual who gave birth to the child unless a court has adjudicated that the individual is not a parent or the individual is a gestational carrier who is not a parent under article 8 of this chapter;
(3)
An individual whose parentage is to be adjudicated;
(4)
An individual who is a parent under this chapter;
(5)
The office of child support services; or
(6)
A representative authorized by law to act for an individual who would otherwise be entitled to maintain a proceeding but who is deceased, incapacitated, or a minor.
(b)
A foster parent does not have standing under this chapter to establish parentage based solely on their status as a foster parent.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-106. - Notice of proceeding.

§ 15-8.1-106. Notice of proceeding.
(a)
Except as provided in subsections (d) and (e) of this section, an individual filing a proceeding to adjudicate parentage pursuant to this chapter shall give notice of the proceeding to adjudicate parentage to the following:
(1)
The individual who gave birth to the child unless a court has adjudicated that the individual is not a parent;
(2)
An individual who is a parent of the child under this chapter;
(3)
A presumed, acknowledged, or adjudicated parent of the child;
(4)
A person whose parentage of the child is to be adjudicated; and
(5)
The office of child support services, in cases in which either party is a recipient of public assistance benefits from the department of human services and has assigned the right to child support, or in cases in which either party has requested the services of the office of child support services.
(b)
An individual entitled to notice under subsection (a) of this section and the office of child support services, where the office is involved pursuant to subsection (a)(5) of this section, has a right to intervene in the proceeding.
(c)
Lack of notice required under subsection (a) of this section shall not render a judgment void. Lack of notice shall not preclude an individual entitled to notice under subsection (a) of this section from bringing a proceeding pursuant to this chapter.
(d)
Notice of complaints for orders of parentage under § 15-8.1-804 shall be as required in § 15-8.1-804.
(e)
Donors, as defined in § 15-8.1-102, are not entitled to notice.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-107. - Personal jurisdiction.

§ 15-8.1-107. Personal jurisdiction.
(a)
An individual shall not be adjudicated a parent unless the court has personal jurisdiction over the individual.
(b)
A court having jurisdiction to adjudicate parentage may exercise personal jurisdiction over a nonresident individual, or the guardian or conservator of the individual, if the conditions prescribed for actions regarding interstate child support, pursuant to § 15-23.1-201 of the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act, are fulfilled.
(c)
Lack of jurisdiction over one person does not preclude the court from making an adjudication of parentage binding on another individual over whom the court has personal jurisdiction.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-108. - Venue.

§ 15-8.1-108. Venue.
Venue for a proceeding to adjudicate parentage shall be in the county in which:
(1)
The child resides or is present or, for purposes of article 7 or 8 of this chapter, is or will be born;
(2)
Any parent or intended parent resides;
(3)
The respondent resides or is present if the child does not reside in this state;
(4)
A proceeding for probate or administration of the parent or alleged parent’s estate has been commenced; or
(5)
A child protection proceeding with respect to the child has been commenced.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-109. - Joinder of proceedings.

§ 15-8.1-109. Joinder of proceedings.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b) of this section, a proceeding to adjudicate parentage may be joined with a proceeding for parental rights and responsibilities, parent-child contact, child support, child protection, termination of parental rights, divorce, annulment, legal separation, guardianship, probate or administration of an estate or other appropriate proceeding, or a challenge or rescission of acknowledgment of parentage. Such proceedings shall be in the family court.
(b)
A respondent may not join a proceeding set forth in subsection (a) of this section with a proceeding to adjudicate parentage brought as part of an interstate child support enforcement action under § 15-23.1-201 of the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-110. - Orders.

§ 15-8.1-110. Orders.
(a)
In a proceeding under this chapter, the court may issue an interim order for support of a child in accordance with the child support guidelines under § 15-5-16.2 and as established by the family court with respect to an individual who is:
(1)
A presumed, acknowledged, or adjudicated parent of the child;
(2)
Petitioning to have parentage adjudicated;
(3)
Identified as the genetic parent through genetic testing under article 6 of this chapter;
(4)
An alleged genetic parent who has declined to submit to genetic testing;
(5)
Shown by a preponderance of evidence to be a parent of the child;
(6)
The individual who gave birth to the child, other than a gestational carrier; or
(7)
A parent under this chapter.
(b)
In a proceeding under this chapter, the court may make an interim order regarding parental rights and responsibilities on a temporary basis.
(c)
Final orders concerning child support or parent rights and responsibilities shall be governed by title 15.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-111. - Admission of parentage authorized.

§ 15-8.1-111. Admission of parentage authorized.
(a)
A respondent in a proceeding to adjudicate parentage may admit parentage of a child when making an appearance or during a hearing in a proceeding involving the child or by filing a pleading to such effect. An admission of parentage pursuant to this section is different from an acknowledgment of parentage, as provided in article 3 of this chapter.
(b)
If the court finds an admission to be consistent with the provisions of this chapter and rejects any objection filed by another party, the court may issue an order adjudicating the child to be the child of the individual admitting parentage.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-112. - Order on default.

§ 15-8.1-112. Order on default.
The court may issue an order adjudicating the parentage of an individual who is in default, provided that:
(1)
The individual was served with notice of the proceeding; and
(2)
The individual is found by the court to be the parent of the child based on a preponderance of the evidence.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-113. - Order adjudicating parentage.

§ 15-8.1-113. Order adjudicating parentage.
(a)
In a proceeding under this chapter, the court shall issue a final order adjudicating whether a person alleged or claiming to be a parent is the parent of a child.
(b)
A final order under subsection (a) of this section, shall identify the child by name and date of birth.
(c)
On request of a party and for good cause shown, the court may order that the name of the child be changed.
(d)
If the final order under subsection (a) of this section, is at variance with the child’s birth certificate, the department of health, division of vital statistics, shall issue an amended birth certificate.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-114. - Binding effect of determination of parentage.

§ 15-8.1-114. Binding effect of determination of parentage.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b) of this section, a determination of parentage shall be binding on:
(1)
All signatories to an acknowledgment form of parentage or denial of parentage, as provided in article 3 of this chapter; and
(2)
All parties to an adjudication by a court acting under circumstances that satisfy the jurisdictional requirements of § 15-8.1-107.
(b)
In a proceeding to dissolve a marriage, the court is deemed to have made an adjudication of the parentage of a child if:
(1)
The court acts under circumstances that satisfy the jurisdictional requirements of § 15-8.1-107; and
(2)
The final order:
(i)
Expressly identified a child as a “child of the marriage” or “issue of the marriage” or by similar words indicates that the parties are the parents of the child; or
(ii)
Provides for support of the child by the parent or parents.
(c)
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a determination of parentage shall be a defense in a subsequent proceeding seeking to adjudicate parentage by a person who was not a party to the earlier proceeding.
(d)
Appeal of adjudication.
(1)
A party to an adjudication of parentage or a party who received notice under § 15-8.1-106, may challenge the adjudication only by appeal or in a manner otherwise consistent with the rules governing a collateral attack on a judgment.
(2)
An individual who has standing under § 15-8.1-105, but who did not receive notice of the adjudication of parentage under § 15-8.1-106, and was not a party to the adjudication, may challenge the adjudication within two (2) years after the effective date of the adjudication. The court, in its discretion, shall permit the proceeding only if it finds that it is in the best interests of the child. If the court permits the proceeding, the court shall adjudicate parentage under § 15-8.1-206.
(e)
An appeal of an acknowledgment by a nonsignatory shall be provided in article 3 of this chapter.
(f)
A child shall not be bound by a determination of parentage under this chapter unless:
(1)
The determination was based on an unrescinded acknowledgment of parentage and the acknowledgment is consistent with the results of genetic testing;
(2)
The determination was based on a finding consistent with the results of genetic testing;
(3)
The determination of parentage was made under article 7 or 8 of this chapter; or
(4)
The child was a party or was represented by an attorney, guardian ad litem, or similar individual in the proceeding in which the child’s parentage was adjudicated.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 1 - Definitions, Scope and General Provisions › Section 15-8.1-115. - Full faith and credit.

§ 15-8.1-115. Full faith and credit.
This state shall give full faith and credit to a determination of parentage and to an acknowledgment of parentage from another state if the determination or acknowledgment is valid and effective in accordance with the law of the other state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 2 - Establishment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-201. - Recognized parents.

§ 15-8.1-201. Recognized parents.
A person may establish parentage by any of the following:
(1)
Giving birth to the child, except as otherwise provided in article 8 of this chapter;
(2)
Adoption of the child pursuant to chapter 7 of title 15;
(3)
An effective voluntary acknowledgment of parentage under article 3 of this chapter;
(4)
An adjudication of parentage under this chapter, including adjudications based on an admission of parentage under § 15-8.1-111;
(5)
A presumption of parentage under article 4 of this chapter, unless the presumption is overcome in a judicial proceeding or a valid denial of parentage is made under article 3 of this chapter;
(6)
An adjudication of de facto parentage under article 5 of this chapter;
(7)
An adjudication that an alleged genetic parent is a parent under article 6 of this chapter;
(8)
Consent to assisted reproduction under article 7 of this chapter; or
(9)
Establishment of parentage under article 8 of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 2 - Establishment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-202. - Nondiscrimination.

§ 15-8.1-202. Nondiscrimination.
Every child has the same rights under law as any other child without regard to the marital status or gender of the parents or the circumstances of the birth of the child.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 2 - Establishment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-203. - Consequences of establishment of parentage.

§ 15-8.1-203. Consequences of establishment of parentage.
Unless parentage has been terminated by a court order or an exception has been stated explicitly in this chapter, parentage established under this chapter applies for all purposes, including the rights and duties of parentage under the law.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 2 - Establishment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-204. - Determination of maternity and paternity.

§ 15-8.1-204. Determination of maternity and paternity.
Provisions of this chapter relating to determination of paternity may apply to determination of maternity as needed to determine parentage consistent with this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 2 - Establishment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-205. - No limitation on child.

§ 15-8.1-205. No limitation on child.
Nothing in this chapter limits the right of a child to bring an action to adjudicate parentage.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 2 - Establishment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-206. - Adjudicating competing claims of parentage.

§ 15-8.1-206. Adjudicating competing claims of parentage.
(a)
In a proceeding to adjudicate competing claims of parentage or challenges to a child’s parentage by two (2) or more persons, the court shall adjudicate parentage in the best interests of the child, based on the following factors:
(1)
The age of the child;
(2)
The length of time during which each individual assumed the role of parent of the child;
(3)
The nature of the relationship between the child and each individual;
(4)
The harm to the child if the relationship between the child and each individual is not recognized;
(5)
The basis for each individual’s claim to parentage of the child;
(6)
Other considerations arising from the disruption of the relationship between the child and each individual or the likelihood of other harm to the child; and
(7)
Other equitable factors that the court deems relevant to the child’s best interests.
(b)
If a person challenges parentage based on the results of genetic testing, in addition to the factors listed in subsection (a) of this section, the court shall consider:
(1)
The facts surrounding the discovery the individual might not be the genetic parent of the child; and
(2)
The length of time between that of the time the individual was placed on notice that the individual might not be a genetic parent and the commencement of the proceeding.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-301. - Acknowledgment of parentage.

§ 15-8.1-301. Acknowledgment of parentage.
(a)
The following individuals may sign an acknowledgment of parentage to establish parentage of a child:
(1)
An individual who gave birth to the child;
(2)
An individual who is the alleged genetic parent of the child;
(3)
An individual who is an intended parent of the child under § 15-8.1-703; and
(4)
A presumed parent under article 4 of this chapter.
(b)
The acknowledgment shall be signed by both the individual who gave birth to the child and by the individual seeking to establish a parent-child relationship and shall be witnessed and signed by at least one other individual and shall contain the following provisions:
(1)
A statement that the child whose parentage is being acknowledged does not have a presumed parent other than the individual seeking to establish the parent-child relationship or has a presumed parent whose full name is stated and does not have another acknowledged, adjudicated or intended parent under articles 7 and 8 of this chapter other than the individual who gave birth to the child.
(2)
A statement that the signatories understand that the acknowledgment is the equivalent of an adjudication of parentage of the child and that a challenge to the acknowledgment is permitted only under limited circumstances and is barred two (2) years after the effective date of the acknowledgment unless there is another presumed parent or genetic parent who could not reasonably have known about the birth of the child and commences a proceeding under this section within two (2) years after learning of the child’s birth.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-302. - Acknowledgment of parentage void.

§ 15-8.1-302. Acknowledgment of parentage void.
An acknowledgment of parentage shall be void if, at the time of signing:
(1)
An individual other than the individual seeking to establish parentage is a presumed parent, unless a denial of parentage in a signed record has been filed with the state registrar for vital records; or
(2)
An individual, other than the individual who gave birth, is an acknowledged or adjudicated parent, or an intended parent under article 7 or 8 of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-303. - Denial of parentage.

§ 15-8.1-303. Denial of parentage.
(a)
An individual presumed to be a parent or an alleged genetic parent may sign a denial of parentage only in the limited circumstances set forth in this section.
(b)
A denial of parentage shall be valid only if:
(1)
An acknowledgment of parentage by another individual has been filed pursuant to this chapter;
(2)
The denial is in a record and is witnessed and signed by at least one other individual; and
(3)
The presumed or alleged genetic parent executing the denial has not previously:
(i)
Acknowledged parentage, unless the previous acknowledgment has been rescinded pursuant to § 15-8.1-307, or successfully challenged the acknowledgment pursuant to § 15-8.1-308; or
(ii)
Been adjudicated to be the parent of the child.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-304. - Conditions for acknowledgment or denial of parentage.

§ 15-8.1-304. Conditions for acknowledgment or denial of parentage.
(a)
Completed forms for acknowledgment of parentage and denial of parentage shall be filed with the state registrar for vital records.
(b)
An acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage may be signed before or after the birth of a child.
(c)
An acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage takes effect on the date of the birth of the child or the filing of the document with the department of vital records, whichever occurs later.
(d)
An acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage signed by a minor shall be valid provided it is otherwise in compliance with this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-305. - Equivalent to adjudication, no ratification required.

§ 15-8.1-305. Equivalent to adjudication, no ratification required.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in §§ 15-8.1-307 and 15-8.1-308, a valid acknowledgment of parentage under § 15-8.1-301, filed with the department of vital records, is equivalent to an adjudication of parentage of a child and confers upon the acknowledged parent all of the rights and duties of a parent.
(b)
Judicial or administrative ratification is neither permitted nor required for an unrescinded or unchallenged acknowledgment of parentage.
(c)
Except as otherwise provided in §§ 15-8.1-307 and 15-8.1-308, a valid denial of parentage under § 15-8.1-303, filed with the department of vital records, in conjunction with a valid acknowledgment of parentage under § 15-8.1-301, is equivalent to an adjudication of the nonparentage of the presumed parent or alleged genetic parent and discharges the presumed parent or alleged genetic parent from all rights and duties of a parent.
(d)
A signatory of an acknowledgment of parentage may rescind or challenge the acknowledgment in accordance with §§ 15-8.1-307 through 15-8.1-309.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-306. - Waiver of filing fee.

§ 15-8.1-306. Waiver of filing fee.
If an acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage is filed at a hospital, contemporaneously with birth, the department of health shall not charge a filing fee.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-307. - Timing of rescission.

§ 15-8.1-307. Timing of rescission.
(a)
A signatory may rescind an acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage under this chapter by commencing a court proceeding before the earlier of:
(1)
Sixty (60) days after the effective date of the acknowledgment or denial, as provided in § 15-8.1-304; or
(2)
The date of the first hearing before a court in a proceeding, to which the signatory is a party, to adjudicate an issue relating to the child, including a proceeding that establishes child support.
(b)
If an acknowledgment of parentage is rescinded under this section, any associated denial of parentage becomes invalid, and the department of human services shall notify:
(1)
The individual who gave birth to the child;
(2)
Any individual who signed a denial of parentage of the child; and
(3)
The department of vital records that the acknowledgment of parentage has been rescinded. Failure to provide notice as required by this section does not affect the validity of the rescission.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-308. - Challenge to acknowledgment after expiration of period for rescission.

§ 15-8.1-308. Challenge to acknowledgment after expiration of period for rescission.
(a)
After the period for rescission under § 15-8.1-307 has expired, a signatory of an acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage may commence a proceeding to challenge the acknowledgment or denial only:
(1)
On the basis of fraud, duress, coercion, threat of harm, or material mistake of fact; and
(2)
Within two (2) years after the acknowledgment or denial is effective in accordance with § 15-8.1-304.
(b)
If an acknowledgment of parentage has been made in accordance with this chapter, an individual who is neither the child nor a signatory to the acknowledgment who seeks to challenge the validity of the acknowledgment and adjudicate parentage shall commence a proceeding within two (2) years after the effective date of the acknowledgment unless the individual did not know and could not reasonably have known of the individual’s potential parentage due to a material misrepresentation or concealment, in which case the proceeding shall be commenced within two (2) years after the discovery of the individual’s potential parentage. An individual under this section who seeks to challenge the validity of an acknowledgment and adjudicate parentage must have standing under § 15-8.1-105. The court may permit the proceeding only if the court finds that the proceeding is in the best interests of the child. If the court permits the proceeding, the court shall adjudicate parentage under § 15-8.1-206.
(c)
An individual challenging an acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage pursuant to this section has the burden of proof by clear and convincing evidence.
(d)
A court proceeding in which the validity of an acknowledgment of parentage is challenged shall be consolidated with any other pending court actions regarding the child.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-309. - Procedure for rescission or challenge.

§ 15-8.1-309. Procedure for rescission or challenge.
(a)
Every signatory to an acknowledgment of parentage and any related denial of parentage shall be made a party to a proceeding to judicially rescind an acknowledgment under § 15-8.1-307(a) or a challenge to the acknowledgment or denial under § 15-8.1-308.
(b)
For the purposes of a judicial rescission under § 15-8.1-307(a) or a challenge to an acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage under § 15-8.1-308, a signatory submits to personal jurisdiction of this state by signing the acknowledgment or denial, effective upon the filing of the document with the department of vital records pursuant to § 15-8.1-304.
(c)
Except for good cause shown, during the pendency of a proceeding to judicially rescind under § 15-8.1-307(a) or challenge an acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage under § 15-8.1-308, the court shall not suspend the legal responsibilities of a signatory arising from the acknowledgment, including the duty to pay child support.
(d)
A proceeding to challenge an acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage under § 15-8.1-308 shall be conducted as a proceeding to adjudicate parentage pursuant to article 1 of this chapter.
(e)
At the conclusion of a proceeding to rescind or challenge an acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage, the court shall order the department of vital records to amend the birth record of the child, if appropriate.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-310. - Forms for acknowledgment and denial of parentage.

§ 15-8.1-310. Forms for acknowledgment and denial of parentage.
(a)
The department of vital records shall develop an acknowledgment of parentage form and denial of parentage form for execution of parentage under this chapter.
(b)
The acknowledgment of parentage form shall provide notice of the alternatives to, the legal consequences of, and the rights and responsibilities that arise from signing the acknowledgment and shall state that:
(1)
There is no other presumed parent of the child or, if there is another presumed parent, shall state that parent’s full name;
(2)
There is no other acknowledged parent, adjudicated parent, or individual who is an intended parent under articles 7 or 8 of this chapter other than the individual who gave birth to the child; and
(3)
The signatories understand that the acknowledgment is the equivalent of a court adjudication of parentage of the child and that a challenge to the acknowledgment is permitted only under limited circumstances.
(c)
A valid acknowledgment of parentage or denial of parentage is not affected by a later modification of the prescribed form.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-311. - Release of information.

§ 15-8.1-311. Release of information.
The department of health may release information relating to an acknowledgment of parentage under § 15-8.1-301, as set forth in § 23-3-23.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 3 - Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage › Section 15-8.1-312. - Adoption of rules.

§ 15-8.1-312. Adoption of rules.
The department of health shall promulgate rules and regulation to implement this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 4 - Presumed Parentage › Section 15-8.1-401. - Presumption of parentage.

§ 15-8.1-401. Presumption of parentage.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, an individual is presumed to be a parent of a child if:
(1)
The individual and the individual who gave birth to the child are married to each other and the child is born during the marriage;
(2)
The individual and the individual who gave birth to the child were married to each other and the child is born not later than three hundred (300) days after the marriage is terminated by death, annulment, declaration of invalidity, divorce, or dissolution;
(3)
The individual and the individual who gave birth to the child married each other after the birth of the child and the individual at any time asserted parentage of the child and the individual agreed to be and is named as a parent of the child on the birth certificate of the child; or
(4)
The individual resided in the same household with the child, and the individual and another parent of the child openly held out the child as that person’s own from the time the child was born or adopted and for a period of two (2) years thereafter, including periods of temporary absence, and assumed personal, financial or custodial responsibilities for the child.
(b)
A presumption of parentage shall be rebuttable and may be overcome, and competing claims to parentage resolved only by court order under this chapter or a valid denial of parentage pursuant to article 3 of this chapter.
(c)
A presumed parent shall be established as a legal parent by the execution of a valid voluntary acknowledgement of parentage under article 3, by an adjudication of parentage under this chapter or as otherwise provided in this article.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 4 - Presumed Parentage › Section 15-8.1-402. - Challenge to presumed parent.

§ 15-8.1-402. Challenge to presumed parent.
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a proceeding to challenge the parentage of an individual whose parentage is presumed under § 15-8.1-401, shall be commenced within two (2) years after the birth of the child.
(b)
A proceeding to challenge the parentage of an individual whose parentage is presumed under § 15-8.1-401, may be commenced two (2) years or more after the birth of the child in the following circumstances:
(1)
A presumed parent who is not the genetic parent of a child and who could not reasonably have known about the birth of the child may commence a proceeding under this section within two (2) years after learning of the child’s birth.
(2)
An alleged genetic parent who did not know of the potential genetic parentage of a child and who could not reasonably have known on account of material misrepresentation or concealment may commence a proceeding under this section within two (2) years after discovering the potential genetic parentage.
If the person is adjudicated to be the genetic parent of the child, the court may not disestablish a presumed parent.
(3)
Regarding a presumption under § 15-8.1-401(a)(4), another parent of the child may challenge a presumption of parentage if that parent openly held out the child as the presumptive parent’s child due to duress, coercion, or threat of harm. Evidence of duress, coercion, or threat of harm may include whether within the prior ten (10) years, the person presumed to be a parent pursuant to § 15-8.1-401(a)(4), has been convicted of domestic assault, sexual assault, or sexual exploitation of the child or another parent of the child, was subject to a final abuse protection order pursuant to chapter 15 of title 15, because the person was found to have committed abuse against the child or another parent of the child, or was substantiated for abuse against the child or another parent of the child pursuant to § 11-9-5.3.
(c)
Challenges under this section shall be adjudicated pursuant to § 15-8.1-206.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2; P.L. 2021, ch. 395, § 2, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 4 - Presumed Parentage › Section 15-8.1-403. - Multiple presumptions or conflicting claims.

§ 15-8.1-403. Multiple presumptions or conflicting claims.
(a)
If two (2) or more conflicting presumptions arise under this chapter, the court shall adjudicate parentage pursuant to § 15-8.1-206.
(b)
If in a proceeding to adjudicate a presumed parent’s parentage of a child, another individual, in addition to the individual who gave birth to the child, asserts a claim to parentage of the child, the court shall adjudicate parentage pursuant to § 15-8.1-206.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 5 - De Facto Parentage › Section 15-8.1-501. - Adjudication.

§ 15-8.1-501. Adjudication.
(a)(1)
In a proceeding to adjudicate the parentage of an individual who claims to be a de facto parent of the child, if there is only one other individual who is a parent or has a claim to parentage of the child, the court shall adjudicate the individual who claims to be a de facto parent to be a parent of the child if the individual demonstrates by clear and convincing evidence that:
(i)
The individual resided with the child as a regular member of the child’s household for a significant period of time;
(ii)
The individual engaged in consistent caretaking of the child;
(iii)
The individual undertook full and permanent responsibilities of a parent of the child without expectation of financial compensation;
(iv)
The individual held out the child as the person’s child;
(v)
The individual established a bonded and dependent relationship with the child which is parental in nature;
(vi)
The individual and another parent of the child fostered or supported the bonded and dependent relationship required under subsection (a)(1)(v) of this section; and
(vii)
Continuing the relationship between the individual and the child is in the best interests of the child.
(2)
A parent of the child may use evidence of duress, coercion, or threat of harm to contest an allegation that the parent fostered or supported a bonded and dependent relationship as provided in subsection (a)(1)(vi) of this section.
Such evidence may include whether within the prior ten (10) years, the individual seeking to be adjudicated a de facto parent has been convicted of domestic assault, sexual assault, or sexual exploitation of the child or another parent of the child, was subject to a final abuse protection order pursuant to chapter 15 of title 15, because the individual was found to have committed abuse against the child or another parent of the child, or was substantiated for abuse against the child or another parent of the child pursuant to chapter 11 of title 40.
(b)
In a proceeding to adjudicate the parentage of an individual who claims to be a de facto parent of the child, if there is more than one other individual who is a parent or has a claim to parentage of the child and the court determines that the requirements of subsection (a) of this section are met by clear and convincing evidence, the court shall adjudicate parentage under § 15-8.1-206, subject to other applicable limitations in this chapter.
(c)
The adjudication of an individual as a de facto parent under this chapter does not disestablish the parentage of any other parent.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 5 - De Facto Parentage › Section 15-8.1-502. - Complaint.

§ 15-8.1-502. Complaint.
(a)
An individual seeking to be adjudicated a de facto parent of a child shall file a complaint with the family court before the child reaches eighteen (18) years of age. Both the individual seeking to be adjudicated a de facto parent and the child must be alive at the time of the filing. The complaint shall include a verified affidavit alleging facts to support the existence of a de facto parent relationship with the child. The complaint and affidavit shall be served on all parents and legal guardians of the child and any other party to the proceeding.
(b)
An adverse party, parent, or legal guardian may file a pleading and verified affidavit in response to the petition that shall be served on all parties to the proceeding.
(c)
The court shall determine on the basis of the pleadings and affidavits whether the person seeking to be adjudicated a de facto parent has presented prima facie evidence of the criteria for de facto parentage as provided in § 15-8.1-501(a) and, therefore, has standing to proceed with a parentage action. The court, in its sole discretion, may hold a hearing to determine disputed facts that are necessary and material to the issue of standing.
(d)
The court may enter an interim order concerning contact between the child and an individual with standing seeking adjudication under this chapter as a de facto parent of the child.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 6 - Genetic Parentage › Section 15-8.1-601. - Scope.

§ 15-8.1-601. Scope.
This chapter governs procedures and requirements of genetic testing and genetic testing results of an individual to determine parentage and adjudication of parentage based on genetic testing, whether the individual voluntarily submits to testing or is tested pursuant to an order of the court or an administrative agency.
Genetic testing shall not be used to challenge the parentage of an individual who is a parent under articles 7 or 8 of this chapter or to establish the parentage of an individual who is a donor.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 6 - Genetic Parentage › Section 15-8.1-602. - Requirements for genetic testing.

§ 15-8.1-602. Requirements for genetic testing.
Genetic testing shall be of a type reasonably relied upon by scientific and medical experts in the field of genetic testing and performed in a testing laboratory accredited by a national association of blood banks or an accrediting body designated by the secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 6 - Genetic Parentage › Section 15-8.1-604. - Genetic testing results.

§ 15-8.1-604. Genetic testing results.
(a)
An individual shall be identified as a genetic parent of a child if the genetic testing of the individual complies with this chapter and the results of testing disclose that the individual has at least a ninety-nine percent (99%) probability of parentage as determined by the testing laboratory.
(b)
Identification of a genetic parent through genetic testing does not establish parentage absent adjudication under this chapter and a court may rely on nongenetic evidence to determine parentage, including parentage by acknowledgment pursuant to article 3 of this chapter or by admission pursuant to § 15-8.1-111, presumed parentage under article 4 of this chapter, de facto parentage under article 5 of this chapter, and parentage by intended parents under articles 7 or 8 of this chapter.
(c)
An individual identified under subsection (a) of this section as a genetic parent of a child may rebut the genetic testing results only by other genetic testing satisfying the requirements of this chapter that:
(1)
Excludes the individual as a genetic parent of the child; or
(2)
Identifies an individual, other than the individual who gave birth to the child, as a possible genetic parent of the child.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 15 - Domestic Relations › Chapter 15-8.1 - Uniform Parentage Act › Article 6 - Genetic Parentage › Section 15-8.1-605. - Report of genetic testing.

§ 15-8.1-605. Report of genetic testing.
(a)
A report of genetic testing shall be in a record and signed under the penalty of perjury by a designee of the testing laboratory. A report made under the requirements of this chapter is self-authenticating.
(b)
A party in possession of results of genetic testing shall provide such results to all other parties to the parentage action upon receipt of the results and not later than fifteen (15) days before any hearing at which the results may be admitted into evidence.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 59, § 2; P.L. 2020, ch. 60, § 2.