Benefits Of Legal DNA Testing
A legal vs. non-legal DNA test is the same test, what differs is the process you go through to get it done. A legal test involves oversight (chain of custody) throughout the entire process; however, there are many benefits to getting the test done this way.
A DNA test is often one of the most important tests you’ll take in your life – critical decisions hinge on its results. Oftentimes a legal test will be needed in cases where:
* You’re needing to prove or confirm someone is a biological father or mother for custody arrangements, child support agreements or adoption situations.
* You need to arrange your inheritance or prove you have the right to an inheritance.
* You need legal proof for your taxes, will or financial trust.
* You need to get your immigration visa approved
* You’re involved in a criminal case
There are thousands of stories out there, all unique, as to why someone needed a legal DNA test. The important thing is to follow the process from the beginning so you maximize your time and investment.
A chain of custody test will document and verify the origin of the sample and ensure the test remains untampered. The results of a chain of custody test are signed by a Ph.D. and notarized.
To request a DNA test, contact us today.
Information On This Topic
Benefits Of Legal DNA Testing
A legal vs. non-legal DNA test is the same test, what differs is the process you go through to get it done. A legal test involves oversight (chain of custody) throughout the entire process; however, there are many benefits to getting the test done this way.
The Importance of Establishing Legal Paternity
In the last decade, the importance of establishing paternity has increased in value due to several legal developments regarding financial rights as well as medical-related issues of the child.
Consider STI/STD Testing along with your Paternity Test
If you are sexually active and pregnant at the same time, you might want to consider taking a comprehensive STI/STD test along with the paternity test. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) are as common in pregnant women as in non-pregnant women.
Why Would Someone Need a Legal DNA Test?
Some of the most common reasons for needing a legal DNA paternity test include:
- Child support
- Birth certificate (name verification or change)
- Ordered by a court
- Child custody
- Tax purposes (IRS may request DNA verification)
- Adoption (legal verification of biological parents)
- Will or estate (confirmation of rightful biological heirs)
What does chain-of-custody mean?
With paternity testing, chain-of-custody is a thorough documentation of the collection, packaging, transport, receipt, and analysis of test samples. This includes the identity of the person(s) performing each step, the date, and the location that each step was completed, which ensures traceability of every part of the testing process.
Be prepared for your DNA or Paternity Test!
- Bring Government Issued ID.
- Bring Birth Certificate for Child. If none, bring a social security card, insurance card, or something else to help support identification.
- Complete TSL Intake Form & HIPAA Disclosure.
- Provide Authorizations to Receive Results.
- Most DNA will require a Buccal Swab specimen from the mouth.
- Prenatal DNA will require a Blood Draw so you will want to by hydrated.
- Be prepared to have a photo taken of all parties being tested.
- Do not eat anything (particularly meat, vegetables and breast milk for infants) for an hour before arriving.
- You do not have to arrive together or go to the same Test Smartly. Labs Testing Center but do coordinate plans with all parties being tested.
What Are Your Hours?
- All Test Smartly Labs are open Monday through Friday, from 9am - 5pm
- The Overland Park Testing Center is also open from 9am – 1pm on Saturdays
Do We Need To Have An Appointment?
- No appointment is required to come into our labs, and all of our locations are on a walk-in basis. However, it is recommended you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to closing. If your situation requires special time considerations, please call us to determine if it would be better to arrange an appointment time.
Do I Need Doctors’ Orders For Testing?
- No doctors’ orders needed, we are a Direct-Access Testing Center. You are encouraged to consult your medical professional with your lab test results.
What’s The Turnaround Time For Lab Work?
- Average turnaround time is 2-5 business days depending on the complexity of the lab work. Most tests are available in 2-3 days.
Do You Need A List Of My Medications For A Drug Test?
- Per protocol, the lab techs are not allowed to receive or ask for your medications. A medical review officer or MRO, a licensed physician who specializes in toxicology, will call you and ask for your medications and your physician’s phone number if it’s detected in your sample during testing. The MRO will then call your physician to verify your medications.
Our Popular Products
Paternity DNA Test, Non-Legal “Good To Know”
Price: $339 / Online Prepay Price: $329 Step 1: Choose a Testing Center location Step 2: Select desired appointment date & time Step 3: Choose "Online Prepay" to receive lowest price OR, select "Pay In-person" option for standard pricing Step 4: Complete the required fields and get tested
Paternity DNA Test, Legally Admissible
Price: $359 / Online Prepay Price: $349 Step 1: Choose a Testing Center location Step 2: Select desired appointment date & time Step 3: Choose "Online Prepay" to receive lowest price OR, select "Pay In-person" option for standard pricing Step 4: Complete the required fields and get tested
Find your nearest location
- Overland Park
Test Smartly Labs ofOverland Park6600 College Blvd, Suite 205
Overland Park, KS 66211,
United StatesOpening Hours :
Mon - Fri : 9am - 5pm | Sat : Closed | Sun : Closed - Kansas City
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