What is the purpose of a paternity test?

The primary purpose of a paternity test in Texas is to determine the biological parent of a child. Paternity tests are typically ordered by a court in order to establish a child’s legal father for purposes such as establishing child support payments, inheritance rights, or custody and visitation. A paternity test can also be requested by a parent or guardian for other reasons such as establishing the parentage of the child for medical or genealogical information. The paternity test is conducted by testing the DNA, or genetic material, of the child and the man in question, usually through a cheek swab. The DNA of both the child and the potential father are then compared to determine if there is a genetic match. If the alleged father’s DNA is a close match to the child’s, then the father is likely the biological father. In the case that the alleged father’s DNA does not match the child’s, then a different man must be identified as the father. In the state of Texas, paternity test results can only be considered as evidence in court if the tests are ordered by the court, or if they are conducted by an organization accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks. While a paternity test can identify a child’s biological father, ultimately it is the court that must legally recognize paternity.

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What is the purpose of a paternity test?

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