How Long Does a Paternity Test Take?

If you are in need of a paternity test, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns. It can be frustrating if you do not know who the father of your child is. It can also be frustrating if you do not know if you have fathered a child. Fortunately, modern technology has given us a wide variety of solutions to this problem, and one of them is a paternity test. If you are interested in taking a paternity test, or if someone you know requires a paternity test, it is important for you to know how this works. Then, you should be aware of how long it takes to get the results back. What do you need to know?

What Is a Paternity Test?

A paternity test is specifically designed to establish a genetic linkage between a child and a potential father. All of us have genetic material in us, called deoxyribonucleic acid. This is usually shortened to DNA. We get our DNA from our mother and father. Sometimes, there are questions about who the father of a child might be. One of the ways to answer this question is to use a DNA paternity test.

Why Is a Paternity Test Requested or Required?

So, why might a paternity test be requested or required? There are several reasons why a paternity test might be important. First, some people do not know who their fathers are, and they might like to know where they came from. A paternity test and provide them with some answers.

Another reason why a paternity test might be required could have to do with legal reasons. For example, someone may be applying for social security benefits. A father might be requesting legal rights over a potential child that he might have. There are also situations where a paternity test might be required for issues related to inheritance.

Finally, a paternity test might also be required because individuals might need to know about conditions that can impact their future health. A lot of chronic medical conditions run in families, and it might be helpful for someone to know who their father is, to find out if they are genetically predisposed to any medical conditions.

What Are the Types of DNA Paternity Tests?

There are a few options available for DNA paternity tests. The first option is a cheek swab. This is one of the most common types of genetic tests. In this case, the potential father will swab the inside of his cheek. Then, the child will do the same thing. Both of these cotton swabs will be sent to a designated lab. The lab will compare the genetic material contained inside the cheek cells. If enough of the genetic material is a match, then the results will be considered positive, and the individual in question will be labeled as the father of the child.

Another option is to do a blood test. In this case, both the father and the child will have a blood draw done at a medical office. Then, the facility will send the blood samples to a lab, where they will be analyzed. The genetic material contained in the blood sample will be compared to one another. If the results are a match, the test will return a positive result, and the father in question will be confirmed as the father of the child.

Typically, the genetic samples are compared using something called DNA sequencing. A special device is used to match the genetic material between the father and the child. These tests are over 99 percent accurate, so the results are reliable.

How Long Does it Take for the Results To Come Back?

The exact turnaround time depends on a number of factors, including the distance between the sample collection point and the lab, the speed of the lab, and the type of test that was ordered. In general, a standard paternity test only takes approximately one to two days to come back, depending on when the samples are received. It is also important to make sure the samples are protected during transit to ensure they do not degrade at all.

Different laboratories have different capabilities, so it may take longer for results to come back from one lab than another. It is not unusual for some laboratories that do not run these types of tests very often to take more than a month to review their results.

If you need to get your results back as quickly as possible, you may want to work with a professional who can help you figure out what lab can help you the fastest. That way, you can put yourself and the potential child in a position to be successful.

How Can I Get My Results Back Faster?

If you would like to get your results back more quickly, there are a few options available. First, you may want to contact the DNA lab directly. Ask them how long it will take you to get your results back. Then, let them know that you are sending some genetic material their way. If they know that it is coming, they may prioritize your sample, allowing you to get your results back more quickly. Ideally, you should talk to a DNA specialist who can assist you.

You may also want to ask for expedited shipping. Even though it may cost more money, it will also get your sample into the lab more quickly. Furthermore, the faster the lab gets your samples, the lower the chances of the samples being degraded or destroyed in transit.

If you need more information on DNA and paternity testing, you may want to talk to your primary care doctor. They may have connections in the local area they can use to help you find the right testing facility to meet your needs. Then, make sure you contact a lawyer to review your results.

Contact Aaron Delgado and Associates for Help with Family and Paternity Issues

It could be frustrating if you are dealing with paternity issues, but this is not something you need to go through alone. There are legal professionals who are willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

At Aaron Delgado & Associates, we have a tremendous amount of experience helping people in the local area with a variety of paternity issues. It will be our pleasure to help you as well. We will be with you every step of the way, advocating for your rights. Contact us today for a free case consultation.