Did you know that proper consent is required for a DNA test?

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In order to protect the public’s privacy and other rights when it comes to DNA testing, legislation requiring consent has been passed by government departments. Therefore, consent is required as follows:

• To test the DNA from an individual, consent from that individual is required.
• If the individual is a child (below 18 years), a person having parental responsibility must give consent.

Consent is required to proceed with DNA testing. In addition to consent, we encourage all parties to be as knowledgeable as possible about the testing and the potential outcomes. Our specialists are always ready to answer any questions you may have, and we have a wealth of information available on this website. We urge you to carefully consider the following when contemplating a DNA test:

• The testing process. In brief, samples for a DNA test are normally taken by buccal swabs, a painless and relatively risk-free method. Some cases may require other methods of sample collection, such as blood sampling. DNA samples are sent to our laboratory, where the tested parties’ DNA is analyzed for matches in several locations. The laboratory completes the testing and analysis in 5-7 working days. We provide the results as soon as they are available via mail or email, as specified by the client. Expedited testing and results delivery options are available.

• The persons involved. We encourage both the mother and alleged father to be tested in a paternity case. This is the best scenario for testing, as it provides genetic information about the mother that can be used in the paternity calculation. However, if the mother’s participation is not possible, we can perform motherless testing and provide conclusive results.

• Implications of the results. We understand that the results of DNA testing can have life-changing implications for those presently involved, as well as future persons. Please take some time to consider the possible implications of a positive or negative paternity result on you and your family.

If you have any questions about consent or our DNA testing services, please call us at 0800 633 5664 or email us at paternity@dna-bioscience.com.