How to Request a DNA Test

DNA test results are useful for child support and parental rights concerns.

DNA testing is a scientific method of comparing genetic information from cells of the individuals tested. This genetic data, called genetic code, is information passed from mother and father to child. Each parent contributes one-half of the child's genetic code. With DNA testing, it is possible to determine paternity, kinship, or exclusion of relationship between individuals tested. DNA testing is conducted for two main categories of concern: kinship and genealogical research. Kinship testing for legal concerns must be conducted through an authorized agency, such as state departments of social services. DNA tests for genealogical research may be ordered online through the Internet.

Things You'll Need

• DNA test kit

Instructions

Legal DNA Testing

1. Contact your local child-support enforcement agency or an attorney who is experienced in child custody cases. For child-support purposes, it is often possible to obtain DNA testing free of charge to you.

2. Attend the genetic testing as scheduled. Legal DNA testing takes place at a designated site and is conducted by a trained clinician or technician. Complete the required paperwork and submit to a mouth swab in which cells are collected from the inside of your mouth on a cotton swab.

3. 

   Cells from the inside of the cheek are collected with cotton swabs.

   Receive the test results from the testing agency or your attorney, depending upon the method you have chosen to use.

Genealogy DNA Testing

1. Order a DNA test kit from a company specializing in genealogy testing and comparison to large groups of people. DNA tests are priced according to the number of markers compared. The higher the number of comparisons, the greater the accuracy of testing for kinship.

2. Follow the instructions that come with the kit. Cleansing the mouth and swabbing with a cotton swab are common procedures. Seal the swabs per instructions and return to the address provided.

3. Receive results of genealogy DNA testing by email or U.S. Postal Service. Read related materials for information regarding anthrogenealogy

References

• Informal Scientist: Paternity Testing
• Legal DNA Paternity Testing: Court-Ordered Paternity Test: What You Need to Know
• Scientific Testimony: DNA Testing: An Introduction for Non-scientists. . .

Resources

• Family Tree DNA