However, it can be an emotional time for everyone concerned - so our sample collectors and lab partners work with solicitors, social services and individuals to establish paternity qucikly, with a minimum of fuss.
The sample collector will usually call to your chosen location - a solicitor's office, home address, placement or other preferred venue. All we ask is that a professional person such as a solicitor is there to to act as a chaperone and witness the procedure.
The process itself is a simple matter of using 4 swabs, which are rubbed inside the cheek for around 1-2 minutes. Following chain of custody protocols, the swabs are then sealed inside a sample pack. Next, the client (or their representative) signs the sample pack and a consent form, before the whole pack is sent to a lab for analysis. Results are then returned within approximately 5 working days. Other DNA tests, i.e. grandparentage, avuncular, missing parent, siblingship and Y-STR are available and results are then returned within approximately 7 working days.
Our laboratory are Section 20 Accredited and are identified on the MOJ list.
Essential Requirements
Our paternity/DNA tests are fully compliant with legal protocols. Therefore, specific items must be provided at the point of testing.
The mother or putative father (or a relative such as a parent or grandparent) must provide photographic ID, i.e. passport or driving licence.
As regards testing of the child/ren either mother or a person with parental responsibility is required to sign the consent form on the day of test. Photographic ID must also be provided.
Our sample collectors are provided with equipment in order to take the required passport sized photographs required by the lab.