Are Michigan Paternity Tests Accurate?

 Posted on November 08, 2021 in Family Law

It is estimated that there are approximately 300,000 paternity tests performed each year in this country to determine the identity of a child’s biological father. In order to make that determination, DNA tests are one of the most reliable and popular methods. Courts rely on DNA testing whenever there is any contesting of paternity, so it is critical for these tests to be accurate.

The DNA Testing Process

When a man is undergoing a paternity test, a small sample of their DNA is required, along with a DNA sample of the child. There are a number of different ways this DNA can be collected:

• By taking a swab of cells from inside the cheeks of both parties

• By taking a small sample of blood from both parties

• By taking a saliva sample from both parties

• By testing the hair of both parties

The majority of DNA paternity tests are performed once the child has been born. While it is possible to collect the child’s DNA while the mother is still pregnant – such as gathering a sample of the mother’s amniotic fluid – this type of in utero testing can present a risk for both the mother and baby and so is not usually recommended.

Once the DNA samples have been collected, they are sent to a lab where both sets of DNA will be examined to see if there is any shared DNA. If there is shared DNA, that result is enough evidence to declare the man the father of the child. If there is not sufficient DNA that is shared, then that is considered enough evidence to rule the man out as the child’s biological father.

DNA Testing Accuracy

Studies have shown that DNA testing for paternity has a 99.9 percent accuracy rate and that is why these tests are recognized by the courts as providing enough evidence to prove or disprove paternity.

While there are situations where the test results may end up being incorrect, this is usually due to errors made while the sample was being collected or during the testing process. There is also the possibility that improper storage of the DNA samples can lead to an incorrect result. However, these situations are rare.

Contact a Novi Family Lawyer

If you find yourself in a position where a paternity test is needed to establish parentage, having a skilled Oakland County paternity attorney protecting your rights is important to the potential outcome of the case. Call Elkouri Heath, PLC at 248-344-9700 to schedule a free and confidential consultation and find out what your legal options may be.

Source:

https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-73971_5528_61204_41278---,00.html

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/10119-dna-paternity-test