How To Use DNA Test To Establish Legal Paternity

DNA paternity tests look for a commonality of certain genetic markers between two different samples of DNA to establish a familial relationship (including paternity) between the two.

A DNA test is generally conducted from a buccal swab (a fairly non-invasive process that uses a long swab to take a saliva and tissue sample from a person's inner cheek lining) to collect the necessary samples. For best results, it is better to have swabs from all three concerned individuals: the father, the mother, and the child. There's a very good reason for this. If the mother's DNA profile is also available, then technicians can isolate the father's genetic contribution a lot quicker by simply subtracting the patterns that came from the mother from the child's DNA sequence. As a result, comparing the potential father's DNA profile to that of the child becomes a lot easier and far more conclusive.

Once the swabs have been collected, they are processed by means of a complex series of steps so as to create a detailed representation of the DNA profile, one in which the various DNA fragments have been detached into distinct, easily chartable bands.

Trained technicians then check the DNA profiles of the child and the alleged father, looking for specific "genetic markers" that the two may have in common. Genetic markers are basically sequences of DNA which have been traced to specific locations on the chromosomes and which have been established as being associated with particular traits such as a particular blood group or eye color. Usually, 13 to 15 distinct regions or identity loci of the DNA are tested in a DNA test. This ensures that 99.9 percent of the time a definite result (either positive or negative) can be reached.

These days, there are several home paternity tests that make it easy for users to unarguably and legally establish paternity in an easy, discreet, and convenient manner. The home paternity test generally comes with all the equipment needed to collect and correctly pack the DNA samples. These can then be mailed to the lab in question. Generally speaking, users will get the results within 4 to 5 days, excluding the time taken to ship the samples.

To conclude, an at-home DNA test is a surefire method of establishing a child's paternity. Whereas there are several types of paternity tests available, not all of them may be legally viable. Make sure the company offers full guarantee that the test is indeed legally binding and is admissible in court. What's more, it's better to hire a third-party professional collection services to collect the sample for greater credibility.