The court recognized the socio-affective paternity of two stepdaughters after the stepfather’s death, understanding that the affective bond and the public recognition of the relationship with the stepfather are sufficient to establish filiation.

According to the court, the absence of a formal declaration by the deceased does not prevent the recognition of paternity, provided that cohabitation, affection, and public treatment as a father–daughter relationship are duly proven.

In this case, the appellants demonstrated more than 20 years of family life, economic dependence, inclusion in a health insurance plan, photographs, witness testimony, and other elements evidencing their status as daughters.