How to do a paternity test
How to take a paternity test
The first thing we must point out is that, for a paternity test, you need two DNA samples : from the alleged descendant and of the supposed parent . Thus, it is possible to compare and determine whether or not there is a relationship of filiation. The principles of the Genetic inheritance , which was developed in the late 19th century, has allowed research to develop better in the 21st century.
To take the test, you must take a sample of some bodily fluid . While blood or semen was often used in the beginning, today saliva is sufficient to obtain genetic marker information. What is done is to use a cotton swab which is passed through the oral mucosa to obtain the sample saliva ; it is then sealed and sent to the laboratory for analysis. It should be noted that, with current advances in genetics, the mother's sample is no longer required for postnatal testing. Therefore, the process of determining parentage is much simplified.
There are some exceptions in the process, such as the Prenatal testing . In this case, a fluid sample must be taken from the fetus and the alleged father. It takes a little longer, the sample collection process is more complex, and, above all, it's much more expensive.
Finally, a DNA sample could also be taken if biological samples from a corpse exist to determine parentage. In this case, bone samples would be taken to compare them with the salivary mucosa of the alleged descendant.
How long does a DNA paternity test take?
The time required for a DNA paternity test will vary depending on the laboratory. However, it is generally much faster in private laboratories than when it is performed through a court order. For example, we have a guideline time of between one and three weeks . If it involves DNA paternity testing conducted by a court, it may take longer.
In any case, there is usually a correlation: the shorter the time, the higher the price. Hence, it's worth comparing different options, also for reliability reasons.
How much does it cost to get tested?
The price of a DNA test to determine parentage also varies depending on the laboratory, if it's private. However, there are also differences in quality between a natal test and a prenatal test. paternity tests They usually cost between 280 and 400 euros , but, if they are prenatal , they shoot up to the 2,500 euros . There are numerous factors to consider, so you should consider them to find the right test for your needs.
Nowadays, postnatal testing is relatively accessible privately. Furthermore, postnatal testing is usually much easier to perform than prenatal testing, because prenatal testing requires the mother's consent.
Accuracy of DNA testing
The accuracy of a DNA paternity test can now be determined almost absolutely. There are other types of tests. genetic tests, but here there is a very high degree of accuracy. To indicate whether the parentage is negative , the probability can be set to a 100% . However, when it comes to probability positive , this is fixed in a 99.99% . Therefore, we are faced with an almost absolute probability of whether or not there is paternity.
The reality, in any case, is that the tests of DNA have judicial validity and are considered conclusive evidence. In fact, the main allegations in this evidence are made through the extraction process or in custody, but not on the substance. Hence, it is considered key to determining liability.
Consequences of a paternity test
Paternity testing is intended to determine parentage, but it has numerous practical applications. In fact, it is estimated that 6,000 paternity suits are filed in Spain each year. Here we indicate the consequences most important:
1. Paternity test: pension and maintenance
Determine the affiliation, according to the Civil code of Spain, implies obligations on the part of the parents. Even if the father has not recognized his child, if he takes a DNA test by court order and the resolution is positive, he will have the legal obligation to contribute to the maintenance of the expenses. It is true, however, that this test can also be carried out at the request of the parent to have parental authority recognized.
2. Inheritance rights
Affiliation gives the right to Inheritance . In this case, biological DNA samples can be taken from the parent's corpse, if there is one, or from close relatives (siblings). If the test is positive, the person would be entitled to a share of the inheritance based on the third of the legitimate portion. For this reason, it has been used in families with a certain wealth. Since the probability is almost absolute, several court cases have been opened for this reason.
3. Crime resolution
Another application of paternity testing is the Crime solving . For example, in mass graves, it is objectively difficult to identify the ownership of human remains. With these samples, in addition to identifying parentage, information about the deceased's movements can be obtained to clarify a crime. Although peripheral or circumstantial, it can help.
4. Identification of ancestors
The identification of ancestors It is used for statistical purposes, but also in the case of wartime crimes against humanity and mass burials in mass graves. In this case, and to identify who the bones belong to, the descendants' DNA provides this certainty. Even if the statute of limitations on criminal liability has expired, the evidence does serve a useful purpose.
In summary…
A paternity test provides certainty, generates rights, and can be done voluntarily or by legal requirement. Are you interested in taking a genetic test? Genotics You'll find a comparison of numerous DNA tests by purpose, price, and shipping time. Explore them and choose the one you need!