What is an affidavit of parentage?
If you are unsure if you want to sign the document while in the hospital, you can take it home with you. Signing the Affidavit allows the fathers name to be placed on the birth certificate. If you choose to take the form home with you, each parent must sign the Affidavit in the presence of a notary public. You may contact the Maryland Department of Health & Mental Hygiene / Division of Vital Records at 410-764-3182 to request an Affidavit, or download a copy here. You can establish paternity via an Affidavit up until your childs 18th birthday. Signing the Affidavit is completely voluntary. Once the Affidavit has been signed by both the mother and father, it officially determines the paternity of your child. The father’s name can be put on the birth certificate. If you both decide to sign the Affidavit while still in the hospital, the hospital staff can help you complete the form free of charge. They can even act as your witness. Make sure you have some identification and know your soci
