Reasons for Getting a DNA Paternity Test
More than just peace of mind
The results of a DNA Paternity test can resolve many issues, such as:
- immigration
- adoption and finding lost relatives
- inheritance
- child support, custody and visitation
- paternity fraud
- peace of mind
Immigration
When a child is born out of the country of the alleged father’s birth, it may be necessary to undergo DNA paternity testing to prove a biological relationship to the father, and therefore citizenship. Some DNA laboratories have staff that specializes in DNA paternity testing for immigration purposes. These specialized staff members should be knowledgeable about all the necessary procedures to prove citizenship and they should be sensitive to the difficulties faced by separated families.
If you are trying to prove American citizenship, the DNA test will be requested by USCIS (United States Citizen and Immigration Services), or the American Embassy. It will be important that you follow the established protocol. They will provide you with the necessary paperwork before you contact a laboratory. USCIS requires DNA testing results to be performed in an ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and AABB (American Association of Blood Banks) accredited laboratory.
If you are trying to prove citizenship outside of the United States, be sure to find out what the immigration requirements and procedures are for your country. Many countries require the laboratory to be ISO certified and will not accept the DNA test results from those that are not certified.
Adoption and Finding Lost Relatives
DNA testing can be used to determine if a relationship existed between siblings, parents or grandparents. Some websites make claims that they will be your greatest resource in your search whether you are looking for parents, children or siblings. Working with a certified and reputable lab is likely your safest option. Be clear on exactly how they can help you and what the costs will be before initiating this process..
Inheritance
If an inheritance dispute exists because the biological relationship between the alleged father and child are in doubt, DNA paternity testing can be used to determine if there is a DNA match. Many labs are able to construct biological relationships even if the alleged father is deceased. If DNA samples are unavailable, samples of paternal relatives may be used. It will most likely cost more to use paternal relatives.
Child Support, Child Custody and Visitation Rights
When the relationship between a parent and child is in doubt, a DNA paternity test may be necessary to conclusively prove a biological relationship between the alleged father and child. If the test is done using proper Chain of Custody procedures, the results can be used for legal support on issues of child support, child custody and visitation rights.
Paternity Fraud
It is considered Paternity Fraud when a woman names another man as the biological father of a child. The alleged father may request a DNA paternity test before agreeing to support the child.
Occasionally the biological relationship does not come into doubt until a divorce or separation has taken place. DNA paternity testing may be necessary to resolve any disputes. If the dispute is a legal one, it will be necessary to follow the Chain of Custody protocol.
Today, there are many local, national and international groups that are organized to help protect and support the rights of men that have been intentionally or unintentionally misled about parenthood. Some men request DNA paternity testing to provide legal support in court when fighting for legal and financial restitution.
Peace of Mind – a simple answer
If you are seeking an answer to the question “who is the father?” you may prefer the simplicity of a home test kit. It is cheaper and faster than going to a laboratory. However, if costs are not an issue, it is still recommended you choose an accredited laboratory and you ask about their policies regarding confidentiality and reporting.
