DNA Testing

You Have Questions. We Have Answers.
If you are an unwed father and want to be a part of your child's life, start with a paternity test. Until a court says you are the father, you won't get the legal rights given to a Dad. Or, if someone claims you're a father, make sure before you assume a lifelong obligation.

Types of Testing and Fees:

Chain of Custody Test (court admissible test):   $375.00

Chain of Custody tests may be done at various locations across the country (call for locations and details.)

Beta Test (non-court admissible):   $300.00

Beta tests may be mailed to the client or done at various locations across the country (call for locations).

For further information contact the DNA scheduling and information line at:

 512-472-3237

What is DNA for Dads? DNA for Dads is a program created by the LoneStar Fatherhood Initiative to provide low-cost DNA testing for both married and unmarried fathers. It is a cooperative effort between TFI and a national DNA lab.

Can I get the testing in my area? Absolutely. Through its unique test-by-mail arrangement, DNA for Dads offers testing in all 50 states.

How long does it take to get the test results back? From the time the sample is sent in, it requires about 5-7 days to get the results.

What is the Do-It-Yourself at Home kit? If all you need is an answer to the question of whether the alleged father is actually the father, the Bets Do-It-Yourself at Home kit is an inexpensive approach. The kit itself costs substantially less than a chain-of-custody kit, and there are no sampling fees payable to the lab in your area. The results are as valid as the chain-of-custody process, but they are not admissible in court without the consent of both parties.

Is the testing admissible in court? Testing can be done at two levels. The first, called chain of custody testing, is specifically done to be admitted in judicial proceedings; legal safeguards are maintained throughout the testing process to ensure the admissibility of results. The second and less expensive approach is provided just to answer paternity questions and is inadmissible without the consent of both parties.

Does my child have to endure having a blood sample taken? No. A sample can be taken with a swab from inside the cheek. The results of this less intrusive sample are as valid as a blood sample.

The mother is not cooperating. Does she have to give a sample? With only the father and child, paternity can be established with at least 99 per cent accuracy, which most courts regard as adequate. With father, child and mother, the accuracy level rises to at least 99.9 percent.

I can't really afford a DNA test now. Can I get one at any time? Many, perhaps most, states require you to submit DNA results at the first child support or custody hearing. If you don't do it then, you may well have waived the right to do so later, even if you determine the child unquestionably is indeed not yours. This is even true of divorces: If you don't question paternity in the divorce, you may not be able to do it later. The wisest approach: Get the DNA test now.

I need help with the legal issues concerning paternity and DNA testing.

Call Lonestar Fatherhood Initiative at: 512-472-3237