DNA Testing Reliability, Accuracy, and Legal Use

Prenatal DNA paternity testing is a conclusive way to determine if man is the father of an unborn child. It is an option for those who do not wish to wait until the baby is born to determine paternity. The samples can be collected using an in-home paternity test kit if the test is for personal knowledge only. If testing is required for use in a legal situation, it is performed using a Chain of Custody, a documentation process that makes the test results legally admissible.

DNA Home Test Accuracy

Home paternity tests rely on approximately 15 markers and if you are able to collect the child’s DNA and the potential dad’s DNA, the test results are 99 percent accurate. Collecting DNA from the child, the mother and the potential father, make the tests 99.9 percent accurate. Forensic DNA testing services are now able to use a range of samples that include hair and blood DNA testing when it’s not possible to obtain the sample through an oral swab.

DNA Testing Lawyer Help

The laws for paternity testing differ in each state; however all states have a procedure in place to identify the child’s father using forensic DNA testing. Once a paternity suit is filed, the court will issue orders mandating that DNA paternity testing be completed. If you find yourself involved in a paternity suit, it’s best to obtain advice from an attorney immediately. Paternity testing laws also protect men from allegations of paternity fraud if tests prove no biological connection to the child.

Thinking About Divorce?