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Hi,
Can you please let me know what are the legal requisites to have a DNA test done?
I live with my partner and our two kids. I'm not sure about the second one and want to do a DNA test.
How can I do this? Does the mother have to know?
Regards,
MK
Hi MK,
DNA testing usually has to be done with the prior knowledge, and agreement, of both parents.That being said, this is usually only the case for legally recognised tests (those admissible in court, for CMS purposes,etc)
For a straightforward "want to know", you should be able to go with something like this;
http://www.alphabiolabs.co.uk/public-services/paternity-testing/
That being said, it's up to you to decide whether you voice your concerns with your partner beforehand - I'd only advise that you fully consider things before moving ahead.
I can vouch for this particular lab as they did legally recognised DNA testing for my children as part of the court proceedings... also they do "Jeremy Kyle's" DNA testing apparently (not sure how much of a positive endorsement that is though!)
All the best,
BD.
I think the question I would ask is what happens if the DNA test comes back as a negative result? This could destroy your relationship - are you sure you want to go down that path?
Thank you for your replies.
Yes, I prefer to know than ever doubt but know that it would destroy my relationship but if it's not mine it's already destroyed.
My concern is that I wanted to do it without the knowledge of my partner as ask would destroy the relationship no matter what the result is.
I know that it wouldn't be accepted in court but need to know.
Can anybody help me please?
I think Badgerdom has pointed you in the right direction as far as who to contact to do the test.
I can understand why you would want to keep quiet about it, if the test comes back and you are the father then no more needs to be said. I think if that happens then you need to look at why the trust in your relationship has broken down for you and perhaps look into putting that right.
If the test comes back and you are not the father then that's a whole new can of worms and I would advise that you think carefully about how to proceed , there is still another child in the mix that you do not have doubts about and I think it's important to remember that in going forward.
If you are doing this without the mothers knowledge then it might be advisable to get the test pack sent to another address. The test itself is straightforward and entails you taking a sample swab from inside your child's mouth and one from yours, full instructions will be included in the pack.
Dear MK,
Thank you for your enquiry.
Ordinarily both parents will need to consent to a DNA test of a child. To arrange a DNA test you can either go through a company endorsed by the CSA or Child Maintenance Service or through a private testing company. It is advisable that if you choose a private company that it is approved and the security arrangements meets acceptable standards.
For more details on this please consult the government website:
https://www.gov.uk/dna-testing-parentage-disagreements.
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