DNA Paternity Testing: The Facts (Guest Post)

DNA
testing isn’t just carried out at the instructions of detectives
and investigators in television crime dramas. The real-life
applications of DNA testing are numerous and include tests to
determine the biological parentage of a child. If you want to know
more about paternity testing or apply for a test, get in touch with a
firm that specializes in this kind of testing, like Who’z
The Daddy?

What
is DNA?

DNA,
or Deoxyribonucleic acid, is a chemical found in the cells of our
bodies. Every individual has a unique
pattern of DNA (except in the case of identical twins) and this
pattern is repeated in every cell. Our DNA is formed from birth and
it does not change over the course of our lives. Half of this is
contributed from the mother and half from the father, and it stores
the information that allows genetic characteristics to be passed down
through generations.

DNA
Paternity Testing

DNA
paternity testing is the most accurate way we have to determine
whether there is a relationship between two people and these tests
are admissible as evidence in court. Samples are taken from the
child, mother and father in the form of a blood sample or swab from
the inside of the cheek. DNA is separated and sorted to produce an
individual profile for the child that can then be compared against
the mother’s sample. Half of the DNA fragments should be consistent
with the mother’s DNA profile and the remaining fragments will
determine whether the alleged father is indeed the true biological
father. Supposed fathers can be excluded if their DNA fragments are
not consistent with the child’s profile. A statistical analysis
will then take place to make sure that the results are true and
accurate. Paternity testing can be undertaken without a sample from
the mother, but these tests take longer to process.

Who
Might Need a Paternity Test?

Paternity
testing is undertaken for a variety of reasons. The main reason is
usually for the peace of mind of a family, but it can also be
required for issues of custody, adoption and the payment of child
support. If you’re considering moving to another country and wish
to prove a family tie to secure citizenship, a paternity test can be
used. There is no age limit for a paternity test, but if the child is
under 18, parental consent must be given.