A legal paternity test uses a strict chain-of-custody process to verify the identity of all participants and ensure results are admissible in court or for legal purposes. Non-legal (informational) paternity tests do not follow these protocols and are intended for personal knowledge only—they are not accepted in legal proceedings.

Legal DNA testing involves collecting DNA samples—usually by cheek swab—from the child, alleged father, and sometimes the mother at an approved collection site. Participants must present valid identification, and all samples are securely documented and tracked through a chain-of-custody process. The samples are then analyzed by an accredited laboratory, and official results are issued for legal use.

A DNA test analyzes your genetic material to provide information about identity, biological relationships, ancestry, or certain health traits. The process typically involves collecting a cheek swab or saliva sample, which is then processed in an accredited  laboratory. Results are interpreted by experts and delivered securely, helping you make informed decisions with confidence. 

Most DNA paternity test results are available within 2–5 business days after the laboratory receives the samples. Expedited testing may be available for certain cases.

No. A paternity test can be performed without the mother participating. However, including the mother may help strengthen the analysis and is often recommended when possible.

Yes. Legal paternity testing can be used for court-related matters including child support, custody, inheritance, immigration, and other legal proceedings. To be court admissible, the test must follow proper chain-of-custody procedures.

Most paternity tests use a simple and painless cheek swab to collect DNA samples. In special circumstances, additional specimen types such as blood may also be available. 

An immigration DNA test is a DNA relationship test performed through an AABB-accredited laboratory and accepted by USCIS, U.S. embassies, and immigration agencies as proof of a biological relationship for immigration purposes. Immigration DNA testing may be requested for visa applications, passports, citizenship cases, or other immigration matters.

No. Participants do not need to be at the same location. DNA collections can often be coordinated in different cities, states, or even countries through approved collection sites.

Legal DNA testing is typically required when there's a need to establish a biological relationship for legal purposes. This could be for child custody cases, child support disputes, immigration applications, or inheritance claims

Yes, the home DNA test is just as accurate as the legal DNA test. Both tests are performed in our accredited laboratory and use the same advanced technology and rigorous testing procedures to analyze the DNA samples. The results from both tests are equally accurate and reliable.

The main difference between the two tests is not the accuracy of the results, but the method of sample collection and the documentation process. For a home DNA test, you collect the samples yourself at home, while for a legal DNA test, the sample collection must be witnessed by a neutral third party, such as a medical professional or a legal representative, to maintain a chain of custody. This chain of custody process is what makes the results of a legal DNA test admissible in court.

So, if you need the test results for legal purposes, such as child custody cases, child support disputes, inheritance claims, or immigration applications, you would need to opt for the legal DNA test. If you're simply seeking to confirm a biological relationship for personal knowledge, the home DNA test would be sufficient.

There is no minimum age for a child to be tested. DNA testing can be performed on individuals of any age, including newborns.