VIRGINIA Part 44

A voluntary written statement (called an Acknowledgement of Paternity "AOP" form) signed by the father and the mother under oath, which acknowledges that the man is the father of the child and that he understands the responsibilities he will have in regards to supporting the child.*2  The most convenient place to sign the AOP form is in the hospital right after the child is born.  It is a free service provided by all hospitals in VA.  The AOP form can also be signed at the Office of Vital Statistics in Richmond, local departments of social services, and local child support offices.*3

The mother or child (once the child is older) can also file a motion to establish paternity in court (this is generally done if the birth father refuses to acknowledge paternity).  A mother or child may want to do this in order to obtain a child support order or inheritance rights. If the father refused to acknowledge that he is the father in court, the judge may order the father to take a DNA test.*4