Legal Paternity Test
About the Legal Paternity Test
What is a legal DNA test?
A legal DNA test is a type of DNA test used to establish biological relationships for legal proceedings. A key requirement of these tests is that DNA samples must be collected by a registered medical practitioner following a strict chain of custody protocol. This means the DNA samples are collected, documented, and transported in a way that ensures they remain untouched and unaltered until they reach the testing laboratory.
When do you need a legal DNA test?
Legal DNA testing is performed when there's a need to establish a biological relationship between individuals. The results from legal DNA tests are frequently employed in legal proceedings including:
- child maintenance disputes
- child custody cases
- inheritance disputes
- immigration, visa or passport applications
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How Legal Testing Works
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DNA Sample Collection
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Legal Paternity Test: 2024 Fee Schedule
| Test Type | Legal Test Kit |
|---|---|
| 1 child, 1 alleged father | £289, Order » |
| 1 mother, 1 child, 1 alleged father | £289, Order » |
| 2 children, 1 alleged father | £408, Order » |
| 1 mother, 2 children, 1 alleged father | £408, Order » |
| 3 children, 1 alleged father | £527, Order » |
| 1 mother, 3 children, 1 alleged father | £527, Order » |
| 4 children, 1 alleged father | £646, Order » |
| 1 mother, 4 children, 1 alleged father | £646, Order » |
| 5 children, 1 alleged father | £765, Order » |
| 1 mother, 1 child, 2 alleged fathers | £408, Order » |
| 6 children, 1 alleged father | £884, Order » |
| 1 child, 2 alleged fathers | £408, Order » |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Legal Paternity Test work?
During a paternity test, DNA samples are collected from both the child and the alleged father via a buccal swab (mouth swab). The collected sample consists of cells, which contain DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) that holds a full set of genetic information unique to each individual, similar to a fingerprint.
In the laboratory, the DNA is extracted from the cells and certain regions of the DNA are amplified through a process called PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for careful analysis. The child’s DNA pattern is then compared to that of the alleged father. As a child inherits their genetic information from their biological parents, examining the DNA of the child can accurately determine whether the alleged father is the biological father of the child.
What is the difference between a home DNA test and a legal DNA test?
The main difference lies in how the DNA sample is collected. For a legal DNA test, the sample collection process must be witnessed by an impartial third party following a strict chain of custody protocol, ensuring that the results are admissible in court. Home DNA tests don't require this, as they are often used for personal knowledge and not intended for legal proceedings. There is no difference in the accuracy between our home DNA tests and legal DNA tests.
How quickly can I expect my Legal Paternity Test results?
We understand the urgency often associated with legal DNA testing. Once the samples are received by our lab, you can expect results within 1-2 business days.
How are the DNA samples collected for the Legal Paternity Test?
To ensure DNA results are admissible in UK legal proceedings, the DNA samples must be collected by a registered medical practitioner and witnessed following a strict chain-of-custody protocol.
Self-Arranged Collection: Our home legal optionoffers the flexibility of arranging your own independent medically qualified person, such as a physician or registered nurse, for sample collection and witnessing services. This individual must act impartially and cannot be related to you or have any personal or financial interest in the test's outcome.
Laboratory-Arranged Collection: With this option, our experienced laboratory staff will handle everything. They will directly communicate with all test participants to arrange appointments at a time that works for everyone.
Do the participants have to test together?
No – we can accommodate separate DNA sample collection appointments if needed.
For our home legal DNA tests, the individual kits can be split and mailed separately.
How does Genetrack ensure the correct person is being tested?
Legal DNA relationship tests employ strict identification and witnessing protocols to ensure the correct individuals are being tested.
During DNA sample collection, each participant is required to present two forms of identification. One of these must be a photo ID, and they must also provide a recent photograph. In addition, fingerprints are taken as an additional measure of identification.
Lastly, a registered medical practitioner who has no connection to the case or the individuals involved will also be responsible for overseeing and documenting the entire process.
Can a DNA test be performed on a baby?
Yes, a DNA test can be safely performed on a baby. The DNA sample is collected via a non-invasive cheek swab, which is painless and safe for individuals of all ages.
Does the mother need to be tested?
In a paternity test, it is not required to test the mother in order to obtain a conclusive legal DNA test result. The test can be absolutely conclusive even with just the alleged father and child's samples. However, including the mother's DNA can help strengthen the results, but it is entirely optional
For other relationship tests like sibling or grandparentage tests, the inclusion of the mother's DNA may help in obtaining more precise results.
How do I order the Legal Paternity Test?
DNA paternity testing can be arranged online, by phone or by fax. Questions can be directed to the laboratory by email at info@genetrack.co.uk or by phone at 1-855-284-6553. Our DNA advisors will be able to answer any questions you may have or to help you to schedule an appointment for testing.
