What is a paternity test?

A paternity test is a DNA-based procedure used to determine whether a man is the biological father of a child. A test will analyse specific genetic markers from the child and the alleged father to determine paternity.

Paternity tests are usually used for resolving child support disputes and applying for rights in respect of a child.

Paternity tests can also be used to add or remove a father’s name from a child’s birth certificate.