The South Carolina Affidavit in Support of Establishing Paternity is a legal document used to establish the identity of a child's biological father. This affidavit aids in determining the child's rights and ensuring the responsibilities of the father are met. It is important to note that there are two different types of South Carolina Affidavits in Support of Establishing Paternity. The first type is the voluntary affidavit, where both the mother and the alleged father willingly sign the document to acknowledge paternity. This type of affidavit is beneficial as it simplifies the legal process and establishes the father's rights and obligations without the need for court intervention. The second type is the contested affidavit, which is used when either parent contests or denies the alleged father's paternity. In this case, the affidavit is more complex and involves legal proceedings and DNA testing to determine paternity definitively. The contested affidavit is filed with the court, and both parties may present evidence and arguments to support their claims regarding paternity. The South Carolina Affidavit in Support of Establishing Paternity typically contains various key elements. These include the names, addresses, and dates of birth of the mother, alleged father, and child. It also includes the date of when the alleged father and mother signed the affidavit. Signatures of both parties are required, along with a notary stamp to validate the document. Additionally, the affidavit affirms that the alleged father assumes full legal responsibility for the child, including financial support, medical care, and other forms of care and assistance. It also acknowledges that the child will have the right to inherit from the alleged father and that the father's surname may be given to the child. The South Carolina Affidavit in Support of Establishing Paternity is a vital document in protecting the child's rights and ensuring that both parents fulfill their responsibilities.