Questions about biological or legal parentage can arise in child-support, parenting and vital-statistics proceedings. Nova Scotia materials still use paternity language to explain some processes, while the statutory route depends on the relief sought.
Sources checked September 29, 2026.
Finding of paternity
Parentage may need to be established where unmarried parents dispute or have not formally established biological parentage.
- possible father
- agreement
- judicial finding
Genetic testing
Testing can be arranged by agreement or ordered by a court in appropriate proceedings.
- DNA testing
- chain and admissibility concerns
- cost
Child-support proceedings
Parentage can be necessary to determine who has a legal support obligation.
- Parenting and Support Act
- support application
- possible fathers
Vital Statistics declarations
A declaration concerning parentage and birth registration can involve a distinct process under the Vital Statistics Act.
- declaratory order
- birth registration
- adding or removing particulars
Parenting consequences
Biological parentage and legal parenting arrangements are related but not identical questions.
- decision-making responsibility
- parenting time
- support obligations