Action in São Luís offers paternity recognition and DNA testing The Public Defender's Office of the State of Maranhão (DPE-MA) opened registrations for the “Meu Pai Tem Nome” project, which offers free assistance for paternity recognition and investigation. The collective effort will be held on August 15th, in São Luís. Interested parties must pre-book by August 10th. Click and subscribe to the g1 Maranhão channel on WhatsApp The service is aimed at people who seek voluntary recognition of paternity or need to initiate an investigation process. Registrations can be made at the headquarters of the Public Defender's Office, located on Avenida Júnior Coimbra, s/n, in the Renascença II neighborhood, or by telephone (98) 99181-2373. During the collective effort, free DNA tests will be offered in cases where there is doubt about paternity. The collection of genetic material depends on the voluntary participation of the parties involved. If the mother does not maintain contact with the alleged father, the Public Defender's Office may send an invitation letter for him to voluntarily attend the service, participate in a conciliation attempt or take the exam. The action offers free DNA tests upon voluntary participation of the parties. Condege's project aims to guarantee rights such as alimony and inheritance. Photo: Disclosure The action will also be promoted by regional centers of the Public Defender's Office in the interior of Maranhão. The dates and forms of service may vary in each municipality. The project was created by the National Council of Public Defenders and General Public Defenders (Condege) and seeks to reduce the number of people without their father's name on their birth certificate. Formal recognition of paternity guarantees rights such as alimony, inheritance and health care, in addition to legally establishing the kinship bond and parental responsibility.