Getting a DNA test for proof of paternity

[DaveTheRave]

So I'm wondering if anybody has ever asked for DNA test to prove the paternity of a child? I know you can buy the kits in places like Boots but do they rally work, are they accurate, will child support accept the results etc??? Also, do you need consent from both parties (mother and possible father)

Any advice would really help me out as I'm very out of my depth here! Please help! 😬

I'm not an expert and I think there is a lot of guidance online, but what I do know is that if you want the results to impact anything legally (eg child support) you will need an unbiased third party to do the testing (which rules out Boots tests). I expect to do that, you would need the mothers consent to test the child. If there is another potential father involved and you wanted their dna tested, they would also need to give permission.
The need for looking into Paternity testing can often be stressful, so I hope you are ok.

www.gov.uk/get-dna-test

There are two you can do. One of them involves solicitors witnessing the DNA test, and is more expensive but is legally binding.

The other involves being sent a kit through the post and relevant parties taking swabs and sending them back. It's not legally binding but is a cheaper option if everyone involved can be trusted.

If the result is likely to be disputed by one of the parties, you may as well go straight to the bells and whistles one.

The CSA have a list of people/companies that they accept tests from. I think they cost about £350 but I don't know the exact process.

Wow thanks everyone, wasn't expecting so many replies so quickly! In my personal circumstances I think the more expensive "legal" test would be probably for the best. I've gone for these guys listed on the GOV website - www.alphabiolabs.co.uk/

Fingers crossed theyll be able to give me some clarity!

Good luck and hope all turns out ok!