Relationships between men and women are rarely simple. This is especially true if a relationship carries with it a measure of intimacy. The birth of a child can be the result of an intimate relationship. Most of the time, both parties know who the child’s father is. Other times, the issue is more complicated.
Ultimately, the matter of paternity may end up in the court. A woman may want to prove a man is the father for such reasons as the securing of child support. A man may wish to be absolved from any responsibility for a child that he does not believe is his. Or a man might want to prove he is the father because he wants a relationship with the child.
DNA tests are a common method of determining if a man is the father of a particular child. These tests carry a high degree of accuracy; therefore, they are often used as evidence in court proceedings. But how do these tests demonstrate paternity?
DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid. A genetic material, all of the cells in the human body have DNA as part of their composition. Generally, everyone’s DNA is unique, with the exception being the DNA of those who were part of identical multiple births.
The human body is composed of a 50-50 split of the biological father’s and biological mother’s DNA. To test a child for their DNA makeup, a sample is acquired from the subject by taking a swab from their mouth on the inside of their cheek.
The DNA from the swab is tested and examined. Whatever does not match the biological mother is from the biological father. This comparison yields a 99.9 percent accuracy rate.
Regardless of which side of a paternity suit you are on, you may fare better in a courtroom with legal representation. A Texas family law attorney may be able to help create an outcome that meets your needs.