DNA Testing

DNA testing allows verification of the biological relationship between a child and their immediate family by comparing DNA samples from each party. DNA testing may be legally mandated as part of the adoption process. Even if it is not legally required, families considering adoption may want it done to give them peace of mind that all parties have been located and agree to the adoption.

The most common DNA tests include the paternity test, to determine the biological relationship between the birth father and the child, the maternity test, to determine the biological relationship between the birthmother and the child, the grandparent test, to determine if there is a biological relationship between grandparents and a child, and DNA banking, which allows DNA to be stored for future use.

Paternity test can be done safely and accurately prior to child birth starting in the ninth week of the pregnancy. If you are considering adopting a child and the father has not been located, talk to an adoption lawyer for more information about laws in your state about locating the birth father and what must be done to legally prove he has relinquished his rights to his child.