What You Should Know About Paternity Testing

To identify the father of a child or establish paternity, paternity testing is performed. Using DNA tests will help prove if a person is the child’s biological father through genetics. More and more people are using this method to establish paternity. In fact in 2004, there are already more than 300,000 paternity tests performed within that year. There are studies showing that paternity testing is 99% accurate.

In some cases, getting DNA sample from the father could be difficult. But if the putative father refuses to provide a sample, the court may order such test. If the father continues to refuse, then he could be placed in contempt of court. DNA from the father can be obtained through a buccal or cheek swab. Any body tissue or fluid like blood, hair, or saliva can be used for DNA testing. It could take 2 to 3 days, in some instances it could take 5 days, before the results are released.

If a DNA test is needed, then a legal paternity test should be performed. It means that the putative father should get tested in an accredited laboratory rather than use home paternity tests. When looking for a testing laboratory, look for the AABB accreditation or ISO 17025 certification. You could ask the laboratory for payment options, there are some laboratories which would start on testing once you have made a down-payment, which is around $99.

Home paternity test usually cost about $25 to $30 which is why people are interested in using the home testing kit. However, the court would require the putative father to be tested in a laboratory. Paternity tests done in laboratories usually range from $150 to $1000. Average cost is about $450 to $600. There are some state agencies that have contracted rate with some laboratories which allow putative fathers to get a lower price. Just ask your local government about it.

There are different factors which can explain the discrepancy between the lowest and most expensive DNA test. For example, the quality of testing could affect the price of the test. Also, the number of subjects involved in the DNA testing could increase the cost of the test. Normally, a test on the mother is not included in the price. Aside from that, if you want the result to return with the results immediately like having it within 1-2 days, then it would definitely cost you extra.

We are now in the age of modern technology where unborn babies could also be subjected to paternity testing. When performing prenatal paternity test, a sample can be obtained by the doctor while the mother is 10 weeks pregnant or until the 24th week. This kind of process is strictly performed by a professional to ensure that no problems or harm would be done to the mother and child.

Undergoing paternity testing would not only help a putative father start or stay connected with the child. It would also help the child in the long run in developing identity and a sense of belonging to a particular social group, their family.