Paternity Suit in France

This service is designed for English-speaking parents — whether resident in France or abroad — who need legal help to:

• Establish legal paternity of a child, or

• Contest an existing paternity that was wrongly attributed.

Whether you are a mother seeking child support, a man wishing to be legally recognised as a child’s father, or someone challenging paternity, our bilingual legal team ensures your case is properly prepared and presented before the French courts.

Paternity actions in France fall under two main categories:

• Establishing Paternity (action en recherche de paternité, Code civil, Articles 325–327):
  This legal action allows a child (or their legal representative) to establish a biological and legal link with their father. It can be filed up to 10 years after the child turns 18.

• Contesting Paternity (action en contestation de paternité, Code civil, Articles 332–333):
  This allows a presumed father (or others with legal standing) to challenge an established paternity — including that based on marriage (presumption of paternity). The action must usually be filed within 5 years from the moment the individual learned of facts that challenge the presumed fatherhood.

• DNA Testing: The court may order a biological test, with the consent of the parties. Refusal may be interpreted as presumptive evidence.

• Jurisdiction: Paternity cases are handled by the Tribunal Judiciaire. The child’s place of residence typically determines jurisdiction.

• International Considerations: For foreign citizens or binational families, French courts may apply international private law rules. Recognition of foreign paternity judgments is also possible, provided they meet French standards of public policy.

1. Initial Consultation: We assess the facts, timeline, and legal grounds to establish or contest paternity.

2. Evidence Collection: We gather key documents, including civil records, correspondence, witness statements, and any biological evidence.

3. Court Filing: We prepare and file your petition with the appropriate French court, stating the legal grounds and the relief sought.

4. Representation in Proceedings: We represent you at all court hearings, whether seeking recognition or contestation of paternity.

5. DNA Coordination: If ordered, we coordinate DNA testing procedures with approved laboratories and ensure legal standards are met.

6. Final Judgment and Follow-Up: Once the court issues a decision, we assist with the update of civil records and enforcement of rights (such as custody or child support).

• Legal Clarity: Secure or challenge a father-child relationship with full legal effect in France.

• Experienced Representation: Ensure your case is handled sensitively and in full compliance with French family law.

• Access to Biological Truth: Courts may authorise DNA testing to help determine the truth when parentage is in doubt.

• Cross-Border Experience: We assist international clients navigating French procedures from abroad.

• Follow-On Legal Support: We can help establish related rights such as child support, inheritance, and custody following the judgment.

• Full assessment of your legal standing and available options

• Drafting and filing of paternity claim or objection

• Representation before the Tribunal Judiciaire

• Assistance with DNA testing orders

• Court-ordered updates to the child’s état civil (civil registry)

• Follow-up support for child support, visitation, or inheritance claims

• English-speaking lawyers experienced in family and international law