Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the genetic material found inside each of our cells that determines all our physical characteristics. The DNA we have in our cells is inherited from our biological parents. A child inherits half of his/her DNA from the mother and half from the father.

DNA testing is used in paternity cases because it provides clear, highly accurate results that confirm whether an individual is the child’s biological father. These results are often used in court proceedings to resolve disputes regarding paternity.

By comparing the child’s DNA profile with their mother’s and the possible father’s, the lab can determine a probability that the man tested is the biological father.

No. Children of all ages can have a sample collected for DNA testing, including newborns.

Buccal cells (cheek cells) will be collected from your mouth using a soft swab. This is considered a non-invasive procedure and is not at all painful.

No, individuals may have their samples collected at different times.

Yes. The child support agency will work with the lab to collect a sample from the parent that lives out-of-state.

It is not possible to alter one’s DNA through a blood transfusion or by taking medications or drugs. However, a bone marrow transplant can affect one’s DNA. If you have had a bone marrow transplant, please inform the lab before your sample is tested.

No. Identical twins share the same DNA. However, testing can differentiate between fraternal twins and closely related individuals.

The lab will need to know of the relationship before the testing has started so that extra genetic markets can be tested, if necessary.

The chain of custody is a documented, step-by-step record of who handled the DNA sample. This strict documentation must be maintained for the results to be used in court. All individuals must present legal identification and be photographed at the time their sample is collected. The DNA collection is witnessed, and the DNA sample is handled and mailed to the lab by an authorized agent. These documented steps ensure the chain of custody is preserved and the DNA sample is not tampered with.

DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC) will be performing your DNA test. DDC is located near Cincinnati, Ohio, and is one of the world’s largest private DNA paternity-testing companies. DDC performs thousands of paternity tests each year and provides accurate and timely results to child support offices around the country.

Results are typically ready a few weeks after the last person’s sample has been collected. Your child support agency will send you the results after the lab completes the testing. Contact your child support agency for any questions about the DNA testing. Due to confidentiality, the lab cannot provide you with the results.