How is DNA used to prove or disprove paternity?
Since everyone inherits half of their genetic material (DNA) from their mother and the other half from their father, DNA analysis makes it possible to determine first, which maternal traits are present in the child, and second, to check whether the remaining traits are present in the presumed father. If the latter does not have the traits that the child must have inherited from the biological father, then paternity is excluded. If the presumed father has these traits, then paternity is statistically established.
How accurate is the PRO-DNA Paternity Test?
The Orchid PRO-DNA Paternity Test provides clear unequivocal answers. If the presumed father is not the biological father, the probability of paternity will be 0%. If the presumed father is the biological father, the paternity will be confirmed with a minimum probability of 99.99%, with the participation of the mother.
Why test the mother in a paternity test?
A conclusive paternity result can be obtained without testing the mother. However, the mother's participation is recommended even if maternity is not questioned. The participation of the mother increases the accuracy of the paternity test because the genetic characteristics received from the mother can be determined and a more straightforward comparison may be made with the genetic characteristics of the alleged father. In the absence of the mother, further analysis may be required in certain situations.
Is a blood sample better than a buccal sample?
No. A buccal sample yields results that are as accurate as those obtained from a blood sample. In fact, since the DNA is identical in each and every cell in a person's body, a wide variety of biological samples, even dating back several years, can be used because the DNA molecule is highly stable.
Do all the parties have to be present at the same time and at the same collection centre?
For the test to be legally admissible, generally speaking, the mother, child and presumed father must be present at the same time and at the same collection centre in order to identify each other. However, it is possible to take samples at different times or at different places if the parties do not wish to see each other or if they live in different regions.
Does the DNA test have any legal value?
Yes, if the legal admissibility option is ordered. Orchid PRO-DNA is committed to establishing its protocols according to good laboratory practices and maintaining a strict chain of custody in order to ensure the admissibility of the results in court. In addition, Orchid PRO-DNA's expertise is supported by the analysis of several thousands of genetic profiles. If necessary, a qualified professional can testify in court regarding the results of a DNA test, the procedures followed or the chain of custody.
Are the results confidential?
Yes. All the circumstances surrounding a DNA test, including the results obtained and all communications, are strictly confidential. To ensure their confidentiality, no results are disclosed over the telephone. Results are transmitted by mail or through our web portal (e-mail notice) to the eligible persons specified on the consent forms.
Is it possible for a person to alter his or her DNA to falsify the results?
No. Alcohol, drugs, medications, age, and lifestyle cannot alter DNA. Only a bone marrow graft can alter DNA. The blood cells of the grafted person thus contain the same DNA as that of the donor but sometimes, the buccal cells may contain a mixture of the DNA from the recipient and donor DNA (chimeric).
What are some of the reasons why a person might request a DNA test?
- To establish the truth in a family dispute
- To use in a dispute concerning child support
- To recognize a child as your offspring
- To resolve ambiguous family situations that are a source of anxiety
- To look for your biological father or mother
- To contest a will