Section 28.8 Jurisdiction and Venue

• Library: Family Law Deskbook and 2014 Supp

B. (§28.8) Jurisdiction and Venue

Jurisdiction for a parentage action under the MoUPA is in
the circuit court. Section 210.829.1, RSMo 2000. An action
to establish paternity is in personam rather than in rem. L__ A__ J__ v. C__ T__ J__, 577 S.W.2d 151 (Mo. App. W.D. 1979). Because of the rights and responsibilities incumbent in a finding of parentage, personal jurisdiction over the defendant must be obtained if an enforceable duty of support is to result. When the determination of paternity or maternity carries with it the obligation to pay child support, the action is in personam as to the party to whom the obligation will attach, and personal service is required.

In L__...