Who The Father Is On Paper
Wis. Stat. 767.805 — conclusive after 60 days, with the same effect as a judgment
In Wisconsin, a statement acknowledging paternity filed with the state registrar becomes a conclusive determination of paternity, with the same effect as a judgment, once the last day to rescind it has passed. A minor may not sign one.
60 days, or a court order first. Either person who signed as a parent may rescind by filing a rescission with the state registrar before 60 days elapse after the statement was filed, or before a court or circuit court commissioner makes an order in an action involving the man and the child, whichever comes first.
What it allows. Unless rescinded, the signed statement lets an action for custody, child support or physical placement be brought, and if both signers had notice of the hearing, the court orders legal custody, physical placement and support.
Fraud, duress or mistake of fact. A determination of paternity under the section may be voided at any time on a motion or petition stating facts showing fraud, duress or a mistake of fact. Orders already entered stay in effect while that is decided, except for good cause.
Past support. Liability for past support is generally limited to the period after the petition or motion for support is filed, and never reaches back before the child's birth.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionSigning at the hospital is only a form | What the law actually doesAfter the rescission period it is a conclusive determination with the same effect as a judgment |
| The assumptionSupport stops while the man challenges it | What the law actually doesOrders stay in effect during the proceeding, except for good cause |
Genetic testing, a contested paternity action and a mother married at the birth are separate from this page. What a particular situation carries is a question for a licensed Wisconsin attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- Wis. Stat. 767.805 — Voluntary acknowledgment of paternity
- Wis. Stat. 69.15 — Changes of fact on birth records
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Wisconsin attorney.