When Can A DNA Be Requested?

Published: 27/05/2015

DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid testing is used to find out all about someone’s DNA in the case of forensic science and proof of paternity or maternity. The term has become quite commonplace in our society today, from cold cases that have been unsolved for years, right up to a mother trying to prove who her child’s father is. There are a number of situations when a DNA test can be requested and carried out.

To begin with, it can be used to prove paternity or maternity. Many a times, a single mother may want to prove that a certain man is the father of her child. Other times, it is the alleged father of a child who may want to confirm the paternity of his wife or girlfriend’s child. In both cases, if any party disagrees to the test, you can seek legal counsel to compel the other party to take the DNA test. The DNA testing may be done in a collection facility or by a private laboratory. If the outcome is positive, a trial can be requested for or an out of court settlement can be put in place.

A DNA test can be requested for in an estate case. Inheritance and and transfer of property from a deceased person to his or her family members can sometimes bring up disputes in the event that a child or parent’s heritage is in question. The one who lodges the suit, with sufficient documentation, can demand for a DNA test on a sibling whose parentage is questioned. In turn, a parent can dispute an offspring’s parentage. In both situations, DNA tests can adequately determine if the accusation is legitimate or not. If not, the party can then file a suit and request for a trial to probably have the defendant removed from the estate.

One of the most common situations where DNA testing can be requested for is during forensic investigations. When there has been a grisly accident where the victims are beyond recognition, DNA testing actually helps in positive identification. Cold cases, or cases that have not been solved for years, usually take advantage of this kind of testing. There have been cases of delayed burials and even exhumation in the event of an unsolved crime. This is done in order to prove that a certain suspect’s DNA was left on the deceased’s body. In fact, paternity tests can also be done on dead bodies although this requires a valid court order for this to take place. One may ask why DNA testing would be done on a person who passed on years ago. This is simply because tissue and matter that can qualify for DNA testing does not get destroyed over time.

No matter the situation, DNA testing works closely with the legal system. Before demanding for a DNA test for whatever reason, seek legal counsel on the implications of your request. This will not only give you relevant information but also protect you from any possible legal tussles with the other parties involved.