Paternity action
A court action to establish who a person’s father is when there has been no voluntary acknowledgment. DNA testing is usually the main evidence, but the judge may consider other evidence, such as witnesses and documents. An unjustified refusal to undergo testing may weigh against the person who refuses. Once paternity is established, rights arise, including a name, child support, and inheritance.
Statutory reference: Law 10.406/2002 (Civil Code), arts. 1606.