Alabama § 26-17-304 - Rules for Acknowledgment of Paternity.

Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 26-17-304 — Rules for Acknowledgment of Paternity., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 26-17-304. Rules for Acknowledgment of Paternity.

(a) An acknowledgment of paternity may be signed at the birth of the child or any time prior to the child’s nineteenth birthday. Before a mother and a putative father sign an acknowledgment of paternity, the mother and putative father shall be given notice, orally or through the use of video or audio equipment and in writing, of the alternatives to, the legal consequences of, and, if one parent is a minor, any rights afforded due to minority status, and the responsibilities that arise from signing of the acknowledgment.

(b) An acknowledgment of paternity takes effect upon the signature of both the mother and putative father and the filing of the document with the Alabama Office of Vital Statistics.

Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 26-17-304

What does Code of Alabama § 26-17-304 cover?

Section 26-17-304 ("Rules for Acknowledgment of Paternity.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Alabama § 26-17-304?

A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 26-17-304" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Alabama law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.

How does Alabama § 26-17-304 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.