Using DNA Testing to Establish Paternity

As technological advances have significantly increased the accuracy of paternity tests, courts have increasingly turned to genetic or DNA tests to determine a child’s biological father. This type of test can measure probability of paternity at a rate of 99.99 percent. As a result, DNA test results are accepted by courts nationwide as proof of a child’s paternity.

What is DNA?

Every human being, with the exception of identical twins, has a completely unique and distinct set of DNA, which is present in every cell of your body. Half of your DNA comes from your mother, and half of your DNA comes from your father. A child’s DNA is more than 99.9 percent identical to their parents’ DNA, which is why DNA testing for the purposes of paternity is so accurate.

How DNA Testing Occurs

When a man requests DNA testing, there is an appointment scheduled for the man, the mother of the child, and the child to collect DNA samples from each party. Each party produces identification and has his or her picture taken in order to ensure that the correct parties undergo the test. Cotton swabs are used to collect skin cells from the inside cheek area of each party’s mouth. The DNA samples, which are found in each person’s skin cells, are sealed into envelopes and shipped to the lab for testing. At the lab, technicians analyze the DNA samples and calculate the probability of paternity. A few weeks later, the lab sends the test results to the office that requested the DNA test, which is often the Child Support Program of the Florida Department of Revenue, or the parties themselves, depending on the circumstances.

Reading DNA Test Results

DNA test results are so accurate that it will be very clear whether a man is the father of the child or note. If the man tested is not the father, the results will show a 0% paternity rate. In this case, any pending paternity case against the man will get dismissed by the court. If the man tested is the father, the results will show a 99% paternity rate or greater. Once the test results are received, the parties proceed in court to establish paternity and any other orders that are necessary for the child, such as child support.

Schedule a Consultation with Your South Florida Divorce Attorney

Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices, LLC, has the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to advocate on your behalf in your paternity case. No matter how complex your case may be, we know how to develop a strategy so as to put you in the best position possible to resolve your case to your satisfaction. We have represented countless clients in South Florida child support proceedings, and we know what it takes to get a fair and just resolution in these types of cases. To schedule a meeting with an experienced Florida paternity lawyer, please contact our office at 954-800-2362 or fill out our online form.