Court-Ordered DNA Tests: A Complete Guide to Legal Requirements
Court-Ordered DNA Tests: A Complete Guide to Legal Requirements
Blog Article
DNA is a molecule present in our body that produces protein and RNA. Children get DNA from their parents during reproduction. It contains genetic information and gives every person a unique genetic code.
What is DNA Testing?
DNA testing is used all over the world to determine genetic information. Acquiring genetic information is necessary for various purposes, including:
- Diagnosing genetic disorders
- Preparing for legal proceedings
- Tracing ancestral lineage
The process of DNA testing includes examining the samples received from an individual who is being tested.
Types of DNA Samples
The types of samples that are most commonly used in DNA testing include
- Blood
- Saliva
- Sweat
- Hair Follicles
- Tissues
DNA Testing can also be done by the objects that are in an individual’s possession. For instance, clothing, pillowcases, toothbrushes, etc.
Court-Ordered DNA Testing: An Authorized Approach
Court-ordered DNA Testing refers to a DNA test that is conducted after receiving judicial orders. In many legal proceedings, a DNA test becomes a mandatory requirement. This is when a judge orders a DNA screening for scientific evidence. The different reasons why a court would order for DNA test include:
Paternity Confirmation:
In many legal proceedings such as those involving child custody, a court-ordered DNA testing is conducted. This test is done to receive confirmation regarding who are the biological parents of a child. Sometimes, it is ordered by the court to confirm the paternity of a child whose parents are not married yet. Moreover, a paternity test could also be ordered by the court to settle legal matters related to inheritance and succession. This process requires the collection of samples from the child and both of their parents.
Criminal Investigations:
Criminal Investigations are also another type of legal proceedings in which court-ordered DNA testing is done. The crimes including rape, domestic abuse, and violence are some of the common examples of such investigations. The main objective behind DNA tests for criminal case analysis is to detect the culprits and make a fair judgment. In most criminal cases, DNA test samples include blood, saliva, hair, clothing, and objects present at the crime site.
Immigration Cases:
A court-ordered DNA testing is often done to resolve immigration cases. It is an important tool that is used for confirming a biological relationship during immigrant visa applications. The process includes the forensic analysis of DNA from two individuals whose relationship needs to be examined. If a match is identified in the results, the DNA test confirms the existence of a biological relationship. This result is thereby used as authorized evidence for immigrant visa proceedings.
DNA Ancestry Testing in Legal Proceedings
A DNA Ancestry Test is used to trace the biological parents of a child, for identifying familial associations. A DNA Ancestry Test is an extensively employed approach for uncovering truth in legal trials. These trials involve confirming paternity, locating the people who have been lost, or solving criminal investigations. The process of a court-ordered DNA Ancestry test includes the collection of a sample, extraction of DNA, analysis of the DNA, DNA comparison, and documentation of the results.
Face DNA Test and Legal Investigations
Face DNA Test is also used to trace a person’s ancestral lineage; however, it is not used in legal proceedings. Face DNA Test is a testament to the advancement of medical sciences. It does not work like the traditional methods of DNA Ancestry Test, rather it relies on comparing facial features. The process includes the use of modern technology to scan a person’s face, and then compare their facial high point to another person’s facial high points. If a match is found, a relationship is confirmed between the two individuals. The results of Face DNA Test are not termed accurate enough to be used in legal proceedings.
Standards for Court-ordered DNA Testing
There are certain standards set for court-ordered DNA testing, which must be followed. Following these standards ensure the accuracy of results. They include:
- Accreditation of the Lab
- Expertly Acquired Samples
- Proper Chain of Custody
- Confidentiality of the Results