Paternity testing is used to determine whether or not a particular man is the biological father of a child. In some cases, such as adoption or a found missing child, DNA tests can determine the biological mother as well. This procedure involves collecting and examining the DNA of a small sample of bodily fluid or tissue from a child and the potential father. DNA is the unique genetic “fingerprint” that makes up a person’s genes and chromosomes. When a baby is conceived, each parent passes on half of his/her DNA to the baby, whose genetic code (DNA) is a shared mix of only its mother’s and father’s DNA. By collecting and examining a small sample of DNA from the child and the potential father, a paternity test can confirm or disprove that the potential father is indeed the biological father of the child.
DNA is present in most of our body’s cells. A small sample for testing can be obtained from several bodily sources. The cells most commonly tested are obtained from the cells in the cheek of the mouth (called buccal cells). Cells are collected by gently rubbing a cotton swab on the inside of the cheek. The swab is sent to a laboratory, and a select number of specific DNA sequences are examined to determine if the DNA collected from the baby match DNA collected from the alleged father.
DNA testing is generally considered to be the most accurate testing method available. DNA paternity testing can indicate that a man is highly likely to be the father with 99.9-99.9999% accuracy, or that he is excluded from being the father with 100% accuracy. Results of buccal cell DNA paternity tests are usually available within 1 to 2 days after receipt by the laboratory.
We also offer home kits. Our kits contain the necessary materials and instructions for conducting a cheek cell swab test. After the cells are collected, the sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis. If directions are correctly followed, the testing technique and accuracy of a privately conducted home test does not differ from a test required by court order. For court-ordered testing, however, the potential father would need to report to a designated paternity testing facility so that the testing can be witnessed and fingerprints and photographs can be confirmed. Whether you choose a home kit or a full-service DNA testing clinic depends on why you need the test. In addition to our DNA testing in Jackson, Brandon, Canton, and Flowood, MS, we service out-of-state clientele as well.
