DNA Testing
PATERNITY FAQs

How Does DNA Testing Work?
DNA profiling, a fundamental breakthrough in the field of paternity testing, allows for direct examination of the genetic material that a child inherited from its biological parents. During the testing process, the genetic characteristics of a child are first compared to those of its mother. Those characteristics that cannot be found in the mother must have been inherited from the biological father.  If the tested man does not contain the genetic characteristics necessary to be the biological father of the child, he is excluded.  If the DNA of the tested man does contain those genetic characteristics, then this man cannot be excluded and the probability that this man is the true biological father can be calculated. 

Are the Results Confidential?
As with all patient information, all client information as well as the results of your tests are strictly confidential. Results are only released to the party requesting the testing, unless otherwise demanded by a court order.

Are the Results Admissible in Court?
Yes. The identification of every person being tested, as well as each sample is carefully documented through each step of the testing process. 

Laboratories are admissible in a court of law, and may me accompanied by our expert witness service if necessary. 

Can Paternity Testing Be Done Without a Specimen Sample From the Mother?
Yes, it is possible to test the child and the alleged father when the mother is unavailable.

How much Specimen Sample Do I need to Give for the Test?
For adults, a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of blood is collected. For infants or small children, a number of options are available depending on the age of the child. Alternatively, a mouth swab collection method can now be utilized. 

Where Do I Go to Have the Specimen Sample Collected?
We provide onsite collection. Special handling ensures that specimens arrive safely at the laboratory. Not all individuals in the paternity analysis need to have their specimens collected at the same place and time. Our customer service representatives will assist you in setting up a convenient appointment to have your blood drawn. 

Individualized Testing Services
Speco Service will customize the collection of biological specimens based on the relationship in question and the specific requirements.  The laboratory offers strict chain of custody procedures in coordinating and collecting biological (blood and buccal (mouth) samples) from individuals in the United States and abroad. A minimum of three highly polymorphic VNTR loci will be used to report a probability of relationship of 99.9% or greater (if exclusion is not found). Reports can be sent to the test requestor and official agencies required. 

How Long Does It Take to Get the Results?
Once all the specimens have been received at the laboratory, the test takes about 9-10 business days or less.