DNA Paternity Frequently Asked Questions

How are Samples Collected?
A sterile swab, very similar to a q-tip, is rubbed on the inside of the cheek from the child and the alleged father.


Is a Blood Sample required?
NO. Paternity testing can be performed using a buccal (cheek) swab.  It is completely non-invasive, painless and convenient.


Are you collecting saliva for analysis when a buccal swab is done?
NO.  While saliva is collected on the swab, it is actually the epithelial (cheek) cells that are being collected for analysis.


Is the cheek/buccal swab accurate?
YES.  Because DNA is the same in every cell in your body, analysis performed on cheek cells is just as accurate as analysis performed on blood.


Can the Paternity Test be performed without the mother?
YES. You can obtain accurate results without testing the mother.


How old must a child be to perform DNA Testing?
There are no age restrictions.  DNA testing can be performed on individuals of any age.


How long does it take to get my Results?
Once the laboratory receives your samples, results will be available in approximately 3 business days. Forensic Testing takes 5-10 business days.  For those needing faster service, express testing is available.  You can receive your Results by Email, Fax, Mail or Verbal Results.


How do you handle the confidentiality of each test?
Information of any kind regarding your test will only be available to the individuals tested or other designated representative(s) (i.e. Attorneys) when a written authorization is provided.


What is the difference between a Personal & Legal test?
The primary difference between the two types of tests is the sample collection method.  Private paternity test samples can be collected in the privacy of your own home, without any witnesses, while legal paternity test samples are collected at an approved collection site, where your identification will be verified, a photograph will be taken and your sample collection will be witnessed.  The purpose of these stringent procedures is to ensure that the participants are who they say they are.


Are the results admissible in court?
YES. As long as you choose the Legal Paternity Test.


What are AABB Certified Lab Standards?
AABB (previously the American Association of Blood Banks) has been setting the standards for parentage testing for over 20 years. It monitors the development of new technologies and reviews laboratories to ensure that they are using scientifically valid procedures.


What is ISO-17025 Standardization?
The work of ISO (International Organization for Standardization) makes a positive difference to the world we live in. They contribute to making the development, manufacturing and supply of products and services more efficient, safer and cleaner.  ISO 17025, "General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories" is an ISO Standard that takes quality management systems a stage further by looking at the competence of the laboratory, as well as the fitness for purpose of the quality management system.


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