The New Jersey Parentage Act, N.J.S.A. 9:17-38 to 9:17-59, allows individuals to seek reimbursement for money they have paid on behalf of a child’s parent for various educational, medical and other support expenses. Under the act, a man alleged or alleging himself to be the father has standing to bring an action. N.J.S.A. 9:17-45.
Because parents have a legal duty to support their children, and to ensure that children get the financial support to which they are entitled, the act provides a means, through compelled blood or genetic testing, by which a child’s parents can be identified so that that child-support obligations can be fulfilled. N.J.S.A. §9:17-48(d).
