1. At-Home DNA Paternity Tests:
* Purchase a kit: These kits are available online and at some pharmacies. Be sure to choose a reputable company with AABB accreditation (American Association of Blood Banks) for the most reliable results. Accreditation ensures the lab follows strict quality standards.
* Collect samples: Most kits require cheek swabs from the alleged father and the child. Instructions are provided with the kit. It's crucial to follow these instructions meticulously to avoid contamination.
* Send the samples: You'll return the samples to the lab using the prepaid shipping materials included in the kit.
* Receive results: Results are typically available online within a few days to a couple of weeks. The results will indicate the probability of paternity (e.g., 99.99% probability of paternity).
Important Considerations for At-Home Tests:
* Accuracy: While generally accurate, at-home tests are not admissible in court unless specific legal chain-of-custody procedures are followed. This means the collection and handling of samples must be documented and verified.
* Legality: The legal implications vary depending on your location. If you need the results for legal purposes (child support, custody), you'll likely need a court-ordered test.
* Chain of custody: The chain of custody is the documentation that tracks the sample from collection to testing. A properly established chain of custody is essential for legal admissibility. At-home tests typically don't have this.
2. Court-Ordered or Legal Paternity Tests:
* Order through the court: A judge will order the test as part of legal proceedings.
* Sample collection: A neutral third party (often a medical professional or court official) will collect samples from the alleged father and the child. This ensures the integrity of the samples and establishes the chain of custody.
* Lab testing: The samples are sent to an accredited lab.
* Results presented in court: The results are considered legal evidence.
Important Considerations for Legal Tests:
* Cost: Legal tests are generally more expensive than at-home tests.
* Admissibility: Results are legally admissible in court.
* Chain of custody: A strict chain of custody is maintained throughout the process.
In short, if you need the results for personal knowledge, an at-home test might suffice. However, if the results are needed for legal purposes (child support, custody, inheritance), you *must* have a court-ordered test conducted by a qualified professional. Always choose an AABB-accredited lab for the most reliable results, regardless of the type of test.