Can I Get a Paternity Test at the Doctor’s Office?
The answer is generally no, you can’t typically get a legal paternity test performed directly at your doctor’s office. While they can offer advice, paternity testing usually involves specialized labs and specific chain-of-custody procedures not typically handled within a standard doctor’s setting.
Understanding Paternity Testing
Paternity testing is a scientific method used to determine whether a man is the biological father of a child. This process analyzes DNA samples from the child and the alleged father to identify matching genetic markers. The results can have significant legal, emotional, and financial implications for all parties involved.
Types of Paternity Tests
There are two main types of paternity tests:
- Legal Paternity Tests: These tests adhere to a strict chain of custody, meaning that the samples are collected, handled, and tested under controlled conditions. They are admissible in court for matters such as child support, custody, and inheritance.
- Informational Paternity Tests (At-Home Kits): These tests can be purchased online or at drugstores. The samples are collected at home and sent to a lab for analysis. While the results can be accurate, they are not legally binding because there is no verifiable chain of custody.
Why Not the Doctor’s Office?
While a doctor can certainly advise you about paternity testing options, several factors make it impractical to perform the actual testing at their office:
- Specialized Equipment and Expertise: Paternity testing requires specialized laboratory equipment and trained technicians to analyze DNA samples. Most doctor’s offices lack these resources.
- Chain of Custody: Legal paternity tests require a strict chain of custody to ensure the integrity of the samples and the validity of the results. This involves documenting every step of the process, from collection to analysis. Doctor’s offices are generally not equipped to maintain this level of control.
- Accreditation: Legal paternity testing labs must be accredited by organizations such as the AABB (formerly the American Association of Blood Banks). This accreditation ensures that the lab meets specific quality standards and follows established protocols. Many doctor’s offices do not have the necessary accreditation to perform legally admissible paternity testing.
Where Can You Get a Paternity Test?
- Accredited Testing Labs: These labs specialize in DNA testing and have the necessary equipment, expertise, and accreditation to perform legal paternity tests.
- Collection Sites: Many testing labs have affiliated collection sites, such as pharmacies or clinics, where trained professionals can collect DNA samples and ensure the chain of custody.
- Home DNA Test Kits (Informational Only): These kits are readily available, but remember, results are not legally admissible.
The Paternity Testing Process
The process of obtaining a legal paternity test typically involves the following steps:
- Choosing an Accredited Lab: Research and select a reputable, AABB-accredited lab.
- Scheduling an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at the lab or an affiliated collection site.
- Sample Collection: Attend the appointment and provide DNA samples (usually cheek swabs). Ensure proper identification and documentation are completed to maintain the chain of custody.
- Laboratory Analysis: The lab analyzes the DNA samples to identify matching genetic markers.
- Results Reporting: The lab provides a report with the test results, indicating the probability of paternity.
Cost Considerations
The cost of a paternity test can vary depending on the type of test, the lab performing the test, and the number of individuals being tested. Legal paternity tests typically cost more than at-home kits due to the stricter requirements and documentation involved.
| Test Type | Approximate Cost | Legal Admissibility |
|---|---|---|
| At-Home Paternity Test | $80 – $200 | No |
| Legal Paternity Test | $300 – $600 | Yes |
Common Misconceptions
- Doctor’s offices routinely perform paternity tests: As discussed, this is rare for legally admissible tests.
- At-home kits are always inaccurate: While results should be viewed with caution, accredited labs using at-home kits do utilize the same accurate DNA analysis methods. The key difference is the lack of a legally defensible chain of custody.
- Paternity tests are only for determining child support: Paternity tests can also be used to establish inheritance rights, medical history, and other legal and personal matters.
Factors to Consider
When considering paternity testing, think about:
- Legal Requirements: If you need the results for legal purposes, you must use a legal paternity test with a verifiable chain of custody.
- Privacy Concerns: Understand the privacy policies of the testing lab and how your personal information will be handled.
- Emotional Impact: Be prepared for the emotional impact of the test results, regardless of the outcome.
Choosing a Reputable Lab
Select a lab with the following qualities:
- AABB Accreditation: Look for labs that are accredited by the AABB.
- Clear Pricing: Understand the full cost of the test, including any additional fees.
- Confidentiality: Ensure the lab has strong privacy policies and protects your personal information.
- Customer Support: Choose a lab that offers responsive and helpful customer support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Get a Paternity Test at the Doctor’s Office?
Generally, no, you can’t get a legally admissible paternity test done directly at your doctor’s office. While your doctor can offer advice and point you in the right direction, the specialized nature of paternity testing requires accredited labs and specific chain-of-custody procedures that aren’t typically available in a doctor’s office setting.
What is Chain of Custody?
Chain of custody refers to the documented and unbroken history of a DNA sample, from the moment it’s collected until it’s analyzed in the lab. This documentation includes details about who collected the sample, when and where it was collected, and how it was handled and stored. A strict chain of custody is essential for legal paternity tests.
How Accurate are Paternity Tests?
When performed by an accredited lab, paternity tests are extremely accurate. The results typically show a probability of paternity of 99% or higher if the alleged father is the biological father, and 0% if he is not.
What Kind of Sample is Needed for a Paternity Test?
The most common type of sample used for paternity testing is a cheek swab (buccal swab). This involves gently rubbing a sterile swab inside the cheek to collect cells containing DNA. In some cases, blood samples or other bodily fluids may be used, but cheek swabs are generally preferred because they are non-invasive and easy to collect.
How Long Does it Take to Get Paternity Test Results?
The turnaround time for paternity test results can vary depending on the lab and the type of test. In general, you can expect to receive results within 3 to 5 business days after the lab receives the samples. Some labs may offer expedited testing for an additional fee.
Do I Need the Mother’s DNA for a Paternity Test?
While including the mother’s DNA can sometimes increase the accuracy of the test, it is not always required. Paternity tests can be performed with just the child’s and the alleged father’s DNA.
What if the Alleged Father is Deceased?
If the alleged father is deceased, it may still be possible to determine paternity by testing DNA from a sample taken before death (if available) or by testing DNA from close relatives, such as the alleged father’s parents or siblings.
Can I Get a Paternity Test Before the Baby is Born?
Yes, prenatal paternity testing is possible. There are two main types:
- Invasive methods like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which carry a small risk of miscarriage.
- Non-invasive prenatal paternity testing (NIPP), which analyzes the baby’s DNA from the mother’s blood sample and is completely safe.
What if the Child and Alleged Father Live in Different States?
It’s possible to arrange a paternity test even if the child and alleged father live in different states. An accredited testing lab can coordinate sample collection at different locations and ensure the chain of custody is maintained.
What are the Legal Implications of a Paternity Test?
The legal implications of a paternity test depend on the laws of your state and the purpose for which the test is being used. Establishing paternity can have implications for child support, custody, visitation rights, inheritance, and other legal matters.
What if the Alleged Father Refuses to Take a Paternity Test?
If the alleged father refuses to take a paternity test, a court can order him to do so in many jurisdictions, especially if a legal case involving child support or custody is pending. Refusal to comply with a court order can have legal consequences.
What if the Paternity Test Shows He’s Not the Father?
If the paternity test results indicate that the alleged father is not the biological father, it can have significant emotional and legal consequences for all parties involved. It’s important to seek legal advice and counseling to navigate these challenges.