What chain of custody protects
Chain of custody is an unbroken written trail showing who handled each sample, when, and how it was sealed. It protects every participant, because it makes it very difficult for anyone to question whose DNA was tested.
Service in Franklin, Tennessee
Legal Paternity Testing
When a result needs to stand up in front of a court, an agency, or a records office, how the samples were collected matters as much as the science.
Overview
How legal paternity testing works
Legal paternity testing uses the same laboratory analysis as a private test, wrapped in a careful documentation process. Every participant shows identification, is photographed, and signs consent. A neutral collector seals the samples and records each handoff.
This record is what separates a legal result from a private one. Without it, a result generally cannot be relied on for official decisions. DNA Paternity Solutions explains each requirement up front so nothing comes as a surprise on collection day.
Step by step
What to expect with Legal Paternity Testing
A clear sequence from first conversation to final report, arranged around your schedule in Franklin.
- 01
Confirm the requirements
If an attorney, court, or agency has asked for testing, bring their instructions so the collection matches what they expect.
- 02
Bring identification
Adults present valid photo identification. A legal guardian provides identification and consent for a minor child.
- 03
Witnessed collection
Cheek swabs are collected by a neutral collector, sealed in tamper evident packaging, and signed by participants.
- 04
Documented results
The laboratory issues a report that references the chain of custody record, ready to share with the parties who requested it.
Coordinating with attorneys and agencies
Some participants live in different places or cannot attend at the same time. Collections can often be arranged separately, as long as each one follows the same documented procedure.
Your attorney or the requesting agency decides how a result is used. The collection itself should simply follow the procedure that party expects.
Questions about Legal Paternity Testing
Short answers to what people commonly ask before booking. Every family situation is different, so please reach out if yours is not covered here.
Do all participants need to be present at the same time?
Not always. Separate collections are common, provided each is documented under the same chain of custody procedure.
Is a legal test more invasive than a private test?
No. The sample is usually the same painless cheek swab. The additional steps are identification and paperwork.
Related
Services often considered alongside this one
Relationship questions rarely fit a single box. These related services may suit your situation, or work together with Legal Paternity Testing.
Chain of Custody DNA Collection
Documented collection with identity verification and sealed handoffs, the backbone of any result meant for official use.
Learn about Chain of Custody DNA Collection
DNA Paternity Testing
Our foundational test for the question of biological fatherhood, offered as a private peace of mind option or a documented legal option.
Learn about DNA Paternity Testing
Multi Child Paternity Testing
One coordinated paternity case covering several children, so each child receives a clear individual result without repeating the process.
Learn about Multi Child Paternity TestingTaking the next step in Franklin
DNA Paternity Solutions serves families in Franklin, Tennessee. When you are ready, schedule an appointment through our online scheduler. Before booking, consider who needs to take part and whether your results are for personal or official use. Call our office at (629) 529 4447 if you have questions about Legal Paternity Testing or need to discuss collection arrangements.
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