There have been enough case studies across Australia for a paternity DNA test to come away with sage advice on the subject.
Men and women won’t enjoy the process, but it will help to detail the identity of the biological parents.
This is where it is important to take stock of the advice that is passed down from one participant to the next.
Working with a reliable test provider
There are a couple of different paths that men and women can take when it comes to their paternity DNA test. One option is to have the assessment carried out at a practice or clinic. The second is to have the test undertaken at home through a test kit. Whatever path that recipients adopt, they have to ensure they are using a reputable and reliable provider. This will give individuals peace of mind about the process and additional resources to ask questions and to potentially arrange a follow up test upon the request of the client.
Adhere strictly to test process
The last experience anyone wants to face with a paternity DNA test is to be the subject of a swab sample, only for that item to be compromised through envelope transit. This is why it is strongly recommended that partners engage in this activity together at a verified clinic, ensuring that there is full transparency and that the samples are delivered on site. If there are any instructions regarding hygiene requirements, test times, or expected behaviours and activities that will help the process, then they should be respected.
Impact on the child
Amid all of the intricacies, complications and emotions that are in play with a paternity DNA test, it is essential that parents always keep the child’s interests and wellbeing front of mind. Especially for children who are old enough to comprehend this type of information, this will be a delicate time in their life. Either having the identity of a father or mother confirmed, or for a new parent to be introduced at a late stage, this will be life changing. It is important for the adults to consider this type of impact and consider how they will communicate these details at the right time and in the right setting.
Reflecting on the purpose of the test
There will be individuals who sign up for a paternity DNA test because they are unsure about the identify of the father or mother. Then there are others who are assigned these tasks given their court appointments, requiring certification in order to be validated for alimony payments, child custody rights or to be entitled to assets from a deceased estate following a challenge to the document. There will be unique stipulations for each of these cases, so it is important not to make assumptions about expected test result times and documentation from one case to the other.
Use your support network where possible
If there are partners, close family members or friends who can be relied on while partaking with a paternity DNA test, then they should be utilised at every phase. This is not a process that can have a life changing impact on a child, but potentially for the adults as well if there is ambiguity over their identity. In order to be in a safe and secure emotional space, it is beneficial to have these participants close by, allowing them to support and assist with anything.
Summary
No two individuals will participate with a paternity DNA test in exactly the same fashion. Some will walk away with confirmation and peace of mind while others will be confronted about the end result. Whatever the case may be, adhere to the professional advice, seek assistance from all quarters and be patient with the process.