Sometimes, in order to establish paternity, the court will order an alleged father to take a paternity test. If you are court-ordered to take a paternity test, here's what you need to know.
When Is a Paternity Test Necessary?
When the mother and father disagree about paternity or just want to make sure of the biological father, the Office of the Attorney General may file a petition asking that the court establish an alleged father as the biological father. In this case, the court will often order the alleged father take a paternity test.
How the Paternity Test Works
A paternity test is simple - the parents and child(ren) have their cheeks swabbed either in court, at a local clinic, or at a local Child Support office. DNA tests can determine the biological father with 99% accuracy.
How Long Before the Results Return?
Most paternity test results are available with-in 4-6 weeks after a swab.
What Happens After the Results Are Back?
After the paternity test results are returned from the lab, the OAG will be able to finalize your paternity order.
Acknowledgement of Paternity
If there is no question about the identity of the child’s biological father, parents can complete an Acknowledgement of Paternity (AOP).