DNA Testing Services
DNA testing is used to confirm whether an biological relationship between two or more individual and to determine the nature of any relationship. The most commonly performed DNA test is the paternity test, but Eurofins Genetic Services also undertakes DNA testing for maternity, siblingship, complex relationship analysis and immigration purposes.
Types of DNA Test
Two different forms of DNA test are offered — peace of mind DNA tests and legal DNA tests. The two types of DNA test are differentiated by the use to which the results of the DNA analysis will be put and, therefore, the evidence of identity and level of supervision, analysis and record keeping that is required during the DNA sampling and analysis process.
Legal versus Home DNA Tests
The table below shows a comparison between the features of a peace of mind DNA paternity test (also referred to as a home paternity test) and a legally admissible or legal DNA paternity test.
| Legal DNA Test | Peace of Mind DNA Test | |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | Fully Accredited (Legally Admissible Test) Useful for all legal purposes including child custody and support, insurance, military, adoption, inheritance and immigration rights and benefits. |
Self Collection (Home Test) Because it is not possible to independently verify the identity of the participants, the results cannot be used for legal purposes. |
| Specimen Collection and Chain of Custody |
Performed by GP’s or Eurofins Genetic Services’ authorised professionals. Verifiable proof of identity of all parties must be included following strict chain of custody procedures. | Performed at home by individuals being tested using a "kit" with cheek "buccal" swabs and easy-to-follow directions. |
| Accuracy | Eurofins Genetic Services' test each sample twice through two different marker systems looking at a minimum of 20 markers. In addition to verifying the sex of all tested individuals for increased resolution and accuracy of the results. Allowing 100% exclusion confirmation. | Eurofins Genetic Services' test 16 markers as standard and verify the sex of all tested individuals to assure you of reliable results. Additionally, we run all exclusions twice to confirm 100% exclusion. |
| Report | Notarized legal document issued according to ISO 17025 accreditation standards and including full disclosure of test results. | Report Includes full disclosure of test results. |
| Price | £395 + VAT | £149 inclusive of VAT |
| Additional Services | For an additional fee, affidavits, depositions and courtroom testimony, can be requested. | A full-price retest will be required if the results are disputed. |
When making your decision about which form of paternity test to choose, please consider what would happen if the test results either confirm or deny paternity.
