Paternity

Paternity cases may be filed by a birth mother or suspected father to legally establish who the biological father is of the child or children in question. Once paternity has been established, the court may address several issues, including child support, custody, and visitation rights.

What forms do I need to file for paternity determination?

Download forms to determine paternity and other relief from the 12th Judicial Circuit Court website.

Where do I file the paternity forms?

Forms may be filed at either Clerk’s Office location, in Sarasota or Venice.

How much does it cost to file a petition to establish paternity?

Description Filing Fee
Petition to establish paternal responsibility and visitation, paternity $300.00
Form to determine paternity if purchased at the Clerk & Comptroller’s Office $9.75

Additional Fees

 Description  Fee
Certification $2.00 
Sign/seal subpoena $2.00
Petition for modifications of final judgment $50.00 
Case re-open fee
$50.00 
Issuance of summons on new and existing cases $10.00
Counter petition for name change, adoption and termination of parental rights $395.00
Counter petition for the same case type $295.00 

Payment Info

  • Cash (in person only)
  • Personal check, cashier's check, money order (payable to the Sarasota County Clerk of Courts)
  • MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express (a $3.50 surcharge will apply