Everything You Need to Know About a Legal Paternity Test

PaternityUSA and the rest of the world has something in common, especially a legal paternity test. In most cases, it is conducted to determine if a particular man who is to be tested is the biological father of a specific kid. Once the DNA samples of both parties are collected and compared, it becomes easy to tell whether they are related. Whereas people often carry out home tests to confirm the relationships, there comes a time when it is demanded. When that term is used, what does it mean? To find out that and much more, read on!

How Unique is Legal Paternity Testing?

Unlike a home paternity test, a legal DNA testrequires the parties to provetheir identity. The only documents that can be used to establish the identity, in this case, are federal or state identification documents. They include IDs, passports, and driver’s licenses, just but to mention a few. If a party is not off age, a birth certificate will play the role perfectly. In addition to those documents, the participants also need to have a photo taken during testing. Otherwise, it may not be a court admissible DNA test regardless of how well it is conducted.

The process of taking the DNA samples is also different. For instance, the person collecting the samples needs to be a third party and, above all, unbiased.  Excellent examples include hospitals, health clinics, and medical offices. In addition to that, sample collection procedures and chain of custody should be as strict as possible. There is also a lot of strictness during handling and shipping the samples. The bottom line is that no party should be shortchanged during this testing process so that justice can prevail at the end of the day.

When is a Legal Paternity Test Needed?

Since it is a paternity test for court, it goes without saying that it is required when determining specific rulings before a judge. Legal matters that may require such a DNA test include changing a birth certificate, child custody battle, or dealing with child support issues.  If dealing with adoption cases, a need for the test may also arise. When dealing with wills, paternity tests may be necessary before one can inherit anything. The reason why courts advocate for them is that the evidence they provide is hard and scientific, and that’s something courts appreciate when making verdicts.

Conclusion

Legal battles can be challenging, but legal paternity testing can really save the day. However, they must meet certain requirements or may not be used in a court of law to make any decision. Always ensure that you follow the guidelines to the letter to avoid losing your court battle. Since you also know when they are applicable, you will know when to conduct one. You might need it for child custody, alimony, and child support, especially when the father denies being biologically related to the child in question. You also don’t need to be denied any inheritance because a DNA test is enough to straighten the record. Equally important, you don’t have to carry the burden of another person. At the end of the day, all involved parties go home happy.

By Callie