Paternity testing questions
What is DNA?
Everyone in the world is genetically different, except identical
twins. What decides the differences between us is a substance known
as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) which is found in the each and every
cell of the body.
DNA is a complex molecule which carries the
genetic information that the body uses in order to determine our
physical characteristics. That information is invaluable in
underpinning medical and genetics research, pointing to new and
improved treatments and contributing to th evidence being collected
for investigations.
One of the techniques used to collate and
analyse this resource is DNA profiling.
What is DNA paternity
testing?
DNA profiling is the established and most accurate method available
for determining familial relationships: that is, who amongst a
given group of people is related to whom.
We use the method in order to analyse certain
parts of the DNA, called genetic markers, from each person (mother,
child and possible father) involved. As each of us inherits half of
our DNA from our father and half from our mother, people who are
related to each other are more likely to share these markers than
people who are unrelated.
We can calculate how probable it is,
therefore, that two people are related to each other, using Short
Tandem Repeat (STR) profiling techniques. These techniques enable
us to prove, beyond reasonable doubt, that a man is or is not the
father of a child.
Profiling techniques sample and compare the
DNA patterns from the (alleged) father and child(ren) in order to
establish:
- The identity of a person’s true father or mother or
siblings
- What can be put forward as evidence in cases of disputed
paternity
- Confirmation of family relationships in immigration
matters
How accurate is the DNA paternity
test?
DNA profiling testing is the most conclusive method available to
prove paternity. It provides proof of parentage at levels of
certainty beyond reasonable doubt.
Will a court accept the results of the
test?
Yes. The results of our paternity testing are admissable as
evidence in UK courts, providing all relevant procedures have been
correctly followed.