Paternity tests are used most frequently to determine the biological father of a child. A child inherits his DNA equally from his biological parents. When you remove the genetic contribution of the mother from a child's DNA, the remaining DNA will match that of the biological father. This is the basic premise behind paternity tests. Paternity test result formats may vary, but each report should contain the same basic information.
Step 1
Read the "sample source" section of the report to confirm that you have received the correct report. Check the names of the mother, child and alleged father.
Step 2
Look underneath the grid or graph on the report for a "Statement of Results" or "Combined Paternity Index." "Paternity Index" may be abbreviated "PI."
Step 3
Interpret the results as follows: A combined paternity index or PI of zero indicates that the man who was tested is not the father of the child in question; this may also be listed as "... excluded..." on a Statement of Results. A combined paternity index of 99.999 percent or a similar number indicates that the man who was tested is, realistically, the father of the child in question; this may also be listed as "...not excluded..." on a Statement of Results.
Step 4
Interpret the grid or graph as follows: The column labeled System or Locus indicates the particular locus or piece of DNA that was tested. One or more columns will be labeled "mother," one or more labeled "child" and one or more labeled "alleged father." These columns tell you the alleles, or specific markers, in each genetic sample. One allele from each biological parent will be present in the child's alleles. If the child's alleles are inconsistent with the contributions from the alleged father, the paternity index will be zero.
Tips and Warnings
- Inconclusive paternity test results are rare and are usually the result of inadequate or contaminated samples.
- Paternity tests cannot determine paternity between two potential fathers who are identical twins. To use a paternity test as evidence in court, certain procedures and standards must be met. If you anticipate using a paternity test in a legal matter, consult an attorney; be sure you or your attorney inquire about the selected laboratory's proficiency rating, certification and test manufacturer's approval by an appropriate governing body.
Things You'll Need
- Paternity test results report
