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The Acknowledgment of Paternity (Vaterschaftsanerkennung in German) is a crucial legal instrument under Swiss family law that enables the formal establishment of legal fatherhood. This document becomes necessary when a child is born to unmarried parents or when paternity needs to be legally established outside of marriage. It must comply with Articles 252 and 260 of the Swiss Civil Code and related provisions, requiring execution before authorized officials. The document records essential information about all parties involved, including the acknowledging father, the child (born or unborn), and the mother. It creates immediate legal effects upon proper registration, establishing rights and obligations including inheritance rights, maintenance obligations, and potential custody arrangements. The acknowledgment is irrevocable once properly executed, except in specific circumstances where it can be challenged through legal proceedings within statutory time limits.

1. Parties: Identification of the father making the acknowledgment, the child's mother, and the child's details (if born) or expected birth details (if unborn)

2. Background: Brief statement of circumstances leading to the acknowledgment, including child's birth date and place (or expected date if unborn)

3. Definitions: Key terms used in the document, including references to relevant authorities and legal terms

4. Declaration of Paternity: Formal statement acknowledging paternity, including explicit acceptance of all legal rights and obligations of fatherhood

5. Mother's Confirmation: Statement from the mother confirming her awareness of the paternity acknowledgment

6. Legal Effects: Statement outlining the legal consequences of the acknowledgment under Swiss law

7. Execution: Formal signatures section, including space for the civil status officer or notary's certification