Who The Father Is On Paper
MCL 722.1004 — the equivalent of a court's adjudication, and 3 years or 1 year to revoke
In Michigan, an acknowledgment of parentage is signed by the eligible parents, with each signature notarized or witnessed by a qualifying employee, may be signed any time during the child's lifetime, and a copy goes to both parents at signing. Filed with the state registrar, it is equivalent to an adjudication of parentage and confers all the rights and duties of a parent.
Revoking it. The mother, the acknowledged parent, an alleged father or a prosecuting attorney may file an action for revocation within 3 years after the child's birth or within 1 year after the acknowledgment was signed, whichever is later.
An affidavit, and clear and convincing evidence. The action is supported by an affidavit stating facts of mistake of fact, newly discovered evidence, fraud, misrepresentation or misconduct, or duress in signing. The person filing must prove by clear and convincing evidence that the acknowledged parent is not the father of the child.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionAn acknowledgment is just a step toward court | What the law actually doesFiled, it is equivalent to an adjudication of parentage |
| The assumptionRevocation is open for the child's whole life | What the law actually doesWithin 3 years after birth or 1 year after signing, whichever is later |
Paternity cases in court, genetic testing orders, custody and support amounts are not all on this page. Whether a particular acknowledgment can still be undone is a question for a licensed Michigan attorney.
Sources for this section (3)
- MCL 722.1004 — Acknowledgment as basis for court ordered child support, custody, or parenting time
- MCL 722.1003 — Acknowledgment of parentage; form; validity; signatures; witness; copy
- MCL 722.1437 — Action for revocation of acknowledgment of parentage
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Michigan attorney.