What is Paternity Test?
The paternity test is a way to verify the biological parent child relationship between two individuals with the use of genetic fingerprinting. It ascertains whether a man is a biological father of the child. Below we look at some important aspects of the tests.
Need of a paternity test
It is extremely important to determine the biological father of a child to secure his/her rights including legal and social benefits which may involve inheritance benefits. It helps to understand the medical history of the child which can be useful for the doctors during diagnosis and treatments in future. In case of multiple partners it may help the mother to determine the father.
When is the paternity test done?
The test can be carried out either before or after the birth of the child. Although, it is not advisable to test the child in a mother’s womb for paternity because of the risks involved, but it may be important in certain cases. The test before the birth is known as pre-natal and after birth is known as post-natal.
How is the paternity test done?
The pre-natal test can be done in two ways. First is Amniocentesis which is can be performed from the 14-20th week and other being Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) which is carried out in 10-13th week. It is comparatively easy to determine parentage after birth. It involves collecting cheek sample from both the child and alleged father and then the samples are sent to the laboratory for DNA Tests.
Where can the tests be done?
The test can be done from any accredited laboratory or hospital. The American Pregnancy Association suggests that the paternity test must be carried out in a place which is approved by the AABB for example, the DNA Diagnostics Center.
Cost of the test
The test may cost somewhere between $400 and $500. It varies, depending upon the area in which you live and the type or test you are willing to take. The coast may go up as high as $1,500.
Result of the test
The result of the test is now days available within the next seven working days, which could take up a few months some years ago. As far as the confidentiality of the result is concerned, it is a rule in almost all the laboratories not to disclose the results. But as precaution, you must be aware of the laboratory policies before the test.
Legal issues concerned with the test
Sometimes, it is required to carry the test for some legal case. In such a situation you must get the test done from a laboratory approved by the court. In case of separated parents, this test helps to secure financial and visitation rights.