Equitable estoppel in paternity will not be ordered if the court finds what?

• A. It is not in the best interests of the child
• B. The father is married
• C. The child is adopted
• D. The mother consented to paternity tests

Answer: (A)

The test centers on the child’s welfare. In paternity matters, equitable estoppel is a tool used only if applying it would serve the child’s best interests. If the court determines that granting estoppel would not be in the child’s best interests—perhaps it would deprive the child of support, a stable paternal relationship, or other welfare-related benefits—the court will decline to order estoppel. That’s why the correct conclusion is that equitable estoppel in paternity will not be ordered if the court finds it is not in the child’s best interests. Other facts like marital status, adoption, or consent to tests do not by themselves decide whether estoppel should apply; they are not controlling in this determination.