How DNA Paternity Testing Can Expedite Child Support Cases
Navigating child support cases can be complex and emotionally taxing, especially when paternity is in question. These cases often involve a paternity test to determine child support, which a certified lab must complete.
Need a legal paternity test that has a compliant chain of custody? Sign up for your paternity test with Health Street at one of our thousands of nationwide clinics. Read more about paternity testing and child support cases below.
What do you need to know about paternity testing
Married couples usually do not have a reason for paternity testing as the husband is presumed the legal father. However, if individuals have children outside of wedlock, they need to establish paternity so the alleged father can gain responsibilities and rights toward the child. Only once paternity has been determined can the father seek custody of the child and visitation. He may also be obligated to pay child support.
Voluntary and court-ordered paternity tests
While some parents may have no doubts about paternity and choose to establish it voluntarily, others might first decide to take an at-home DNA test for peace of mind. Although these tests are accurate, they lack court admissibility.
Courts may order a legal DNA test for legal disputes. After legal paternity has been established, the judge can also establish child support, visitation, custody, and so on. Until then, the father has no legal right to his child.
Legal paternity DNA test
Legal paternity DNA testing is often ordered during a divorce or if parents are unmarried to establish custody and child support. These tests are court-admissible, and once ready, you will receive a copy of the DNA results.
Child support DNA test
Having no legal father can be emotionally and financially draining. A child support DNA test is a quick and easy way to prove paternity and establish child support responsibilities so that both parents can adequately support their kids.
Health Street DNA paternity testing
For parents at odds over paternity, Health Street makes it easy to get clarity. With thousands of clinics nationwide, scheduling a test is convenient. All you need is an ID for adults, and for the child, bring a social security card or birth certificate.
If parents wish to undergo a child support DNA test but cannot test at the same location, they can test separately at different clinics and at different times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a paternity test required for child support?
In cases where paternity is questioned, a paternity test may be necessary to establish the father-child relationship and determine child support obligations.
How long does the child support process take?
The length of time differs based on each case's unique circumstances. However, taking a child support paternity test can help speed up the process.
How can we speed up the child support process?
Often, establishing paternity is delayed due to disagreements or uncertainties between parents. Child support paternity tests can help speed up the process by resolving paternity disputes quickly.
