What kind of DNA tests are used to establish paternity?

In Texas, the most common and accurate type of DNA test used to establish paternity is the Paternity DNA Test. This test compares a child’s DNA genetic signature with that of the assumed father, mother and potential father. A laboratory technician performs a testing process called Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) DNA testing. This process involves cutting the strands of DNA into smaller pieces that will match up against the parents’ DNA and any potential father’s DNA. If the father’s DNA is similar to the child’s DNA, it can be determined that the father is the biological parent with a high degree of accuracy. The results of this test are typically very accurate and can range from 0% to 99.9% possibility of paternity. There are also other tests that are commonly used to establish paternity. These tests include cheek swabs, hair follicle tests and blood tests. Cheek swabs involve taking a sample of the child’s and the father’s DNA from the inside of the cheek. Hair follicle tests involve taking a hair sample of the child’s and the father’s DNA from a strand of their hair. Blood tests involve taking samples of the child’s and the father’s blood and comparing their blood types to determine if the father is a biological parent. These tests are typically used when the father’s identity is in dispute and the results are submitted to a court of law to determine the parentage of the child. While these tests are not as accurate as the Paternity DNA Test, they can still be used to prove paternity.

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