DNA Testing - Making the Right Choice

DNA testing has become a popular means of identifying relationships between people, yet even with the growth of the Internet as a source of information, many people are still unsure about what they should do.

Many people use the Internet to learn about DNA testing but how can you be sure that the DNA tester you find online is a UK accredited and ethical supplier, or just a “one man band” with a website and a link to a lab overseas?

Why should people be recommended to have a “court approved” test when “home” testing appears to be cheaper? How do people find objective advice on issues such as whether it is in the best interests of the child? What steps are involved in having a relationship test?

The key decision is to always choose a fully accredited and ethical UK DNA tester. That is a company which fully adheres to the Dept. of Health’s voluntary Code of Practice, has been accredited by the Ministry of Justice, has ISO17025 accreditation and meets the requirements of the Human Tissue Act.

Make sure they provide professional and responsive customer service, offering support and assistance at every step of the way, and that it’s easy to get in contact with them. They should advise you that a court approved test offers greater reassurance and peace of mind as the process ensures that the results will be accepted by a UK court of law. So if a court becomes involved a “home” test will not be accepted and another test will be required – this time a court approved test.

They should provide sufficient information to ensure individuals can make the right choices.

Get advice. From a GP, the CAB, a Solicitor, Relate, Parentline or a family friend, that it’s the right thing to do – and if it’s in the best interests of any children involved.

Talk to an ethical tester. One who offers advice, can take test registrations over the phone, or online and who will manage the whole sampling and testing process.

Taking a sample. A simple mouth swab is required, plus the signatures of both donor and sampler (GP or Practice Nurse) on the forms to confirm the donor’s identity and their consent.

Testing and reporting. Testing normally takes around 5 working days from the samples arriving at a UK lab. All individuals being tested are entitled to a copy of the report.

Court Approved DNA testing

For a court to accept DNA test results as evidence of paternity, it is essential that the court can be certain that the correct procedures have been followed, right from the taking of the samples to the reporting of the results.

The Ministry of Justice maintains a short list of companies who are accredited to carry out parentage tests directed by the civil courts in England and Wales under section 20 of the Family Law Reform Act 1969.

Being accredited by the Ministry of Justice means that Cellmark abides by the voluntary Code of Practice for genetic testing laboratories, and is accredited to the International Quality Standard ISO17025.

It also means that:

1. The individuals being tested give their consent for DNA testing.

This is an absolute requirement under the Human Tissue Act 2004, failure to ensure this can open yourself up to the offence of "DNA theft" which is punishable by a prison sentence of up to 3 years and/or a fine of £3000.

2. The samples are taken by an independent and suitably qualified medical practitioner. The sampler should not be related to the sample giver, nor have any financial or personal interest in the outcome of the paternity test.

3. Procedures are followed to ensure that the correct individuals are tested.

4. DNA testing is undertaken in a professional manner which complies with UK legislation.

Please consider that choosing to have a 'peace of mind' or 'curiosity' DNA test may not be the cheapest option - if you subsequently end up having to go to court to resolve the issue you will need to undergo another test - this time a court approved test - so careful consideration of your options is sensible.

We recommend that you talk to a third party such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, your GP or a family friend.