Sometimes getting a paternity test is easy. If the mother and possible father of your newborn live together, they may agree to DNA testing.
The situation becomes more complex when the mother and the possible father of your newborn have never lived together. If this includes a refusal of the father to take part in paternity DNA testing, you may feel stuck.
We know this is an uncomfortable situation. Keep reading for our advice on how to get a paternity test when the father refuses.
Understand the Legalities of Paternity Testing
When it comes to an understanding the legalities of paternity testing in a situation where the father refuses to take the test, the first step is to learn about the legal processes available. Either the mother or the suspected father may obtain a court-ordered paternity test. Depending on the jurisdiction, a court may require additional evidence to support allegations of paternity before a court-ordered paternity test is issued.
Furthermore, it is recommended to seek legal advice before beginning a paternity test process. To prove paternity, the court may require a range of tests that may be more invasive than a simple blood test.
Uncover the Process of an At-Home DNA Test
If the father of your child is refusing to get a paternity test, at-home DNA tests may be a viable option. While some may be weary of this method, the process has been used by thousands of customers for years.
To begin, some of the best paternity test companies will first send their customers a test collection kit. It typically has a mouth swab that takes seconds to fill and return. After the sample collection, customers then send the collection kit back to the laboratory.
After testing the DNA, the results are provided within 2-3 weeks. The best thing about an at-home DNA test is that it requires no court order and is entirely private.
Learn How to Collect a DNA Sample
If the father refuses a paternity test, you still need to learn how to collect a DNA sample. First, try to be understanding – many fathers fear the implications of performing a paternity test.
Next, consider getting a court order for a paternity test, which entails filing a petition for a test in your local court. It’s possible to do a home paternity test which requires that both the mother and the father swab their inner cheek.
Seek Professional Assistance
Working with a lawyer who specializes in family law will allow you to understand what options are available to you. Discussing the situation with a professional can also be quite beneficial. It helps you understand the legal implications as well as outline strategies to get the father to take the test.
Additionally, a lawyer familiar with the situation can help to provide sound advice. One can guide you through the process of petitioning the court if the father still refuses to take the test. Learn more on paternity DNA testing here.
Follow These Tips on How to Get a Paternity Test When the Father Refuses
Getting a paternity test when the father refuses can be challenging but not impossible. It’s important to stay level-headed and remember that, ultimately your child’s health and well-being is the most important thing.
Dealing with this matter in a professional and legal manner can often yield rewarding results. If you need additional guidance on how to get a paternity test when the father refuses, consult with a family law attorney for tailored advice.
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