1. How Does DNA Profiling 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.

2. Are the Test Performed by Fairfax Identity Laboratories Reliable?

Yes. Each year, many individual parents, child support offices, lawyers, judges, and doctors turn to us for information and guidance in establishing or disproving paternity. Our powerful DNA-based tests are extremely valuable in answering their questions of parentage. Our tests will reliably exclude a man as the father or provide a probability of paternity greater than 99%.

3. 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.

4. 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. Results from Fairfax Identity Laboratories are admissible in a court of law, and may be accompanied by our expert witness service if necessary.

5. Can My Unborn Child Be Tested to Determine the Paternity of the Father?

Yes. By obtaining a specimen from the fetus through chorionic villus sampling (CVS), DNA-based paternity testing can be done as early as 10 weeks into the pregnancy. With amniocentesis, paternity can be determined beginning at about the 15th week of pregnancy. Each year Genetics & IVF Institute (GIVF) safely performs thousands of these sampling procedures, and, if the need warrants, can make arrangements for prenatal paternity testing. For additional information about these prenatal sampling procedures, please consult your physician or contact us.

6. 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.

7. How Much Specimen Sample Do I Need to Give for the Test?

For adults, a small amount of (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.

8. Where Do I Go to Have My Specimen Sample Collected?

We have an extensive system of specimen collection sites. Special handling ensures that specimens arrive safely at our laboratories from throughout the United States and from other countries. 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. Also, in some area home service is available.

9. 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.

10. Does It Matter Which Lab I Use?

Yes! Fairfax Identity Laboratories, a world leader in the field of genetic testing, uses the DNA-based method of paternity testing because it is the most powerful means of resolving questions of parentage. Our excellent reputation assures you of high standards. Our clinical services group (GIVF) of physician-geneticists and genetic counselors, highly trained in genetic DNA testing, is a further sign of our dedication to specialization and quality. These clinical services are rarely provided by other paternity testing laboratories.