Overview
Testing When Standard Collection Isn’t Possible
When a father or child is deceased, or a standard cheek swab cannot be collected, other samples can be used for a paternity test. Every sample is first tested to confirm it contains usable DNA, and the lab must be told about the sample beforehand — including its size, age and storage conditions.
Sample Types
Accepted Biological Materials
Tissue from the Deceased
Tissue or cells from a deceased participant can be used. For a legal test, we provide the documentation to the doctor collecting the sample.
Hair
Hair can be used as a reference sample when the father is deceased or not available.
Personal Items
Cells recovered from personal items can be used as a reference when no standard sample is available.
Sample Verification
Each sample is tested for usable DNA before the relationship test. Results of this verification take 7–10 working days.
Separate Verification Fee
Sample verification is charged separately from the paternity test fee — US$280 per sample (personal or legal).
Authorization Form
You will sign an Unusual Sample Authorization Form confirming you understand the limits of testing these samples.
Important Note
DNA from these samples may not be usable, in which case a paternity test cannot be carried out. You will be told the result of the DNA verification. Contact us about the sample you have before sending it.