State v. Weeks

The State appeals the Superior Court’s (Temple and Dickson, JJ.) orders dismissing the State’s petition to determine paternity and to enforce the obligation of child support against the defendant, Brian Weeks. The central issue in this case is whether the State’s action is barred by laches. We hold that it is not, and therefore reverse and remand.

Jane Doe (the mother) gave birth to Mary Doe (the child) on January 19,1977. No father was stated on the child’s birth certificate, but the mother has named Weeks as the father of the child, and alleges that he held himself out as the father until…