LEGAL PATERNITY TESTING
Table of Contents
Legal DNA paternity testing provides court-admissible genetic evidence to establish biological relationships between fathers and children. These tests analyze specific DNA markers through standardized collection procedures that maintain chain of custody. Understanding the process, requirements, and applications of legal paternity testing helps families navigate legal obligations, secure benefits, and make informed decisions about their familial relationships.
How much is a DNA test for paternity?
The price of a legal paternity test starts at $350.00 for a father and child or for a father and child with the mother. DNA sample collection fees are not included in the test price. Sample collection costs vary based on your location and are determined when you schedule your appointment. Call 888-970-4211 to schedule an appointment today.
What is a legal paternity test?
Legal paternity testing analyzes Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Standard Tandem Repeat (STR) markers to determine the probability of paternity between the alleged father and a child. This option requires the establishment of the following:
- A strict chain of custody.
- DNA samples must be collected by a third-party collector,
- All specimens will be tested and analyzed by our partner AABB-accredited laboratory. The AABB (formerly the American Association of Blood Banks) is the accrediting organization recognized by family courts and state institutions when DNA results are submitted as evidence. The accreditations ensures the highest standards will be implemented for your legal testing process.
Common uses:
Common reasons for a legal paternity test include:
- Establishing paternity
- Adding a father’s name to a child’s birth certificate
- Accessing Social Security benefits when a father is deceased
- Inheritance
- Immigration evidence submission to USCIS or U.S. Embassy for visa acquisition
- In-vitro fertilization confirmation
Legal Documentation:
Below are the common items required to perform a legal paternity test during your sample collection appointment.
Identification Types:
- Drivers License
- U.S. Passport
- Any state-issued ID
- Children under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian present to give consent.
Please note: Attention! New York State residents due to the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) guidelines residents must provide one for the following documents listed below in addition to the identification listed above.
- Prescription referral from NYS licensed doctor.
- A court order from a judge
- A letter from a Family Law Attorney
To schedule an appointment or to ask a question regarding legal DNA testing Call 888-204-0583 today.
Can legal paternity testing be done during pregnancy?
Yes. An invasive prenatal paternity test can be used legally. An OBGYN must maintain strict chain of custody for amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) collections. Note that invasive prenatal tests carry risks and cannot be performed as standalone tests. The mother’s OBGYN must recommend CVS or amniocentesis to proceed with an invasive test.
Read more about legal prenatal DNA testing options here.
How can I get a legal paternity test done?
Call 888-970-4211 to schedule an appointment today. We have over 2,500 collection sites in our network near most major cities nationwide.
DNA TESTING NEAR ME
What is the difference between legal vs home DNA test kits?
Differences in testing options include:
- Legal DNA Tests: Results can be used legally, require a chain of custody, and involve a third-party collector.
- At Home DNA Test Kits: These are for personal use only. You collect your own samples, and results cannot be used legally.
How long does a DNA paternity test take?
Results are available within 2 to 3 business days from when the lab receives all DNA specimens. After analysis, a copy of your results will be emailed, and another will be mailed to your home.
Alternative DNA Testing Options:
When paternity testing is not possible, performing an alternative Family relationship DNA test is an option to help determine paternity legally. Below are our alternative testing options.
- Legal Sibling DNA Test
- Legal Grandparent DNA Test
- Legal Avuncular DNA Test
Frequently Asked Questions About Legal Paternity Testing
What do I need to perform a legal DNA test?
Requirements for legal DNA testing at the sample collection appointment include:
- State identification (license or passport) for individuals 18 years or older.
- Children under 18 should present state identification or passport.
- New York residents must have one of the following:
- A prescription referral requesting a DNA test from an NYS licensed doctor,
- A letter from an NYS licensed attorney,
- A court order from a judge.
Learn more about New York State DNA testing requirements call 888-970-4211.
What is the DNA sample collection method?
DNA sample collection follows industry standards using two or more sterilized cheek swabs. Each swab is placed inside the mouth and brushed against the cheeks on both sides for 30 seconds per person.
How accurate are legal paternity tests?
Testing conducted by our partner laboratory meets high industry standards. When properly conducted, legal paternity testing typically yields a probability of biological relationship of 99.99% or higher in confirmed cases.
Can my legal DNA results be used to establish paternity?
Yes. Legal paternity test results can serve as evidence to establish paternity.
Are my legal DNA test results private?
All DNA specimens and results remain confidential. Specimens are retained for three months before destruction. Results are released only to participants involved in the test. An unrelated third party receives results only with a court order presented to the lab. The lab will notify clients before releasing results.
Paternal Services:
Home Paternity Test
Legal Paternity Test
Prenatal Paternity Test
Parentage DNA Testing
DNA Testing Services:
Sibling DNA Test
Grandparent DNA Test
Avuncular DNA Test
Maternity DNA Test
Forensic DNA Services:
Infidelity DNA Test
DNA Testing w/Hair
DNA Testing w/Toothbrush