If a child is born out of wedlock, the biological father must take additional steps in order to be declared the legal father. It depends on the state, but typically you file a petition for legitimation with the court, which declares you legally the father. If you are not in a relationship with the mother, you would also handle visitation/custody and child support at this time.
Contact your local bar association or the courts directly to figure out how to do this in your area. It is typically only a matter of filing a form and having a judge sign off on it, unless your paternity is contested.
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