From only £55 in addition to the testing cost
There are many circumstances where samples for a Paternity DNA Test cannot be obtained via the usual method of using mouth swabs. In these cases, a Forensic Test could be the answer.
Forensic Tests can be carried out using a wide range of different samples, including fingernail clippings, hair, blood stains, teeth, ear wax, mucus and semen. Objects which have been in close contact with the person who needs to be tested, such as cigarette butts, drinking straws and even drink cans, can also potentially be used.
Please note that we require consent and photographic ID from all parties in order to perform this test. It is a criminal offence to test a person’s DNA without the informed consent of the person from whom the sample came. We cannot process any samples submitted without the full consent and ID of all participants. A parent or legal guardian can give consent on behalf of a child. Next of kin must sign if the sample donor is deceased. Please see below for more information about the Human Tissue Act.
Due to the nature of this type of test it cannot be ordered via our website. Please Contact Us for more information or to place an order.
How Reliable is a Forensic Test?
The effectiveness and reliability of each Forensic Test depends on the type of tissue or object being used. For instance, semen has a 90% success rate, while toothbrushes only have a success rate of 60% or less.
Nevertheless, you have our assurance that we will do our best to ensure we are able to extract DNA from the sample if at all possible. Our state-of-the-art laboratory processes enable us to give you the highest level of service at all times.
How Much Does a Forensic Test Cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of sample – see the table below for more information on what samples can be used, the additional testing cost and its estimated success rate. All our prices are based on the additional extraction processes and analysis that are required to work with the different types of samples.
PLEASE NOTE that all the costs listed below are in addition to the cost of the actual DNA Test they are being used for and are per sample per person. It is not necessary to send the same type of sample for each participant. For example, we can use mouth swabs for mother and alleged father but nail clippings for a child if you do not want the child to question why you are collecting a mouth swab sample. A parent or legal guardian must still provide consent for a child to be tested.
Using an alternative DNA source will typically add 2 working days to the testing time although this may be longer for more complicated samples such as teeth, bone and paraffin embedded tissue.
However, you can rest assured we will take the shortest time possible before sending your results.
Please Contact Us for more information or to place an order.
What is Differential Extraction?
Differential Extraction is recommended for Male/Female mixed DNA samples containing semen. This includes whole semen, a semen stain on fabric and tampon or feminine pad.
When testing DNA from a sample containing sperm and vaginal cells we expect the resulting profile to be a mixture of male and female DNA. The Differential Extraction process occurs before DNA amplification and physically separates sperm cells from epithelial cells. This process allows us to provide two separate profiles, one from the sperm fraction and the other from the non-sperm fraction, as opposed to one mixed profile.
The Law and the Human Tissue Act
It is important to note that this type of DNA testing cannot be carried out in the UK without the informed consent of each person being tested. In other words, we cannot accept samples taken from anyone without their knowledge.
The Human Tissue Act of 2004 regulates how any type of biological tissue is used. The Act has made it illegal to collect DNA samples from anyone without their informed consent. This means you cannot take a sample from someone under false pretences – they must be made fully aware of what their sample is going to be used for.
If you have parental responsibility for a child you can give consent on their behalf.
Next of kin must sign if the sample donor is deceased.
The Human Tissue Act applies to the United Kingdom.
Please click here to read more about DNA Testing and The Human Tissue Act.
Exemptions
Certain exemptions apply to the collection of samples under the Human Tissue Act. These include any sample collected before 1st September 2006, when the law was put in place. Other exemptions may apply, so Contact Us if you are not sure, and our experienced customer service team will be able to assist you in complete confidence.
*Differential Extraction recommended for Male/Female mixed DNA samples containing semen – see explanation above.
*Differential Extraction recommended for Male/Female mixed DNA samples containing semen – see explanation above.
*Differential Extraction recommended for Male/Female mixed DNA samples containing semen – see explanation above.
Please note that the Differential Extraction is charged in addition to the test fee and the surcharge applicable for the type of sample submitted.