Establishing biological parentage is a critical step in securing financial support for a child. When parentage is disputed, the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) or the UK court system requires specific, legally defensible evidence. At Brashan DNA Services, we provide the accredited testing necessary to resolve these disputes with certainty.
Why a "Peace of Mind" Test Isn't Enough
While home paternity kits are accurate, they are not legally admissible for child maintenance claims. For the CMS or a court to accept results, you must use a Legal DNA Test. The primary difference is the "Chain of Custody."
In a legal test, a neutral third party (a professional sampler) must verify the identity of everyone involved and oversee the collection of samples. This ensures that the swabs belong to the correct individuals and have not been tampered with.
The Role of ISO Accreditation
UK law dictates that DNA tests for legal purposes must be performed by laboratories accredited to ISO 17025 standards. Brashan DNA Services ensures all legal DNA testing kits are processed by Ministry of Justice-approved laboratories.
How the CMS Handles DNA Disputes
If you apply for child maintenance and the alleged father denies paternity, the CMS can arrange a DNA test.
- Fees: There is usually a fee for CMS-ordered tests (currently around £325.62).
- Refunds: If the test proves the person is not the father, the fee is typically refunded.
- Refusal: If an individual refuses to take a DNA test without a valid reason, the CMS has the power to "presume" parentage and proceed with a maintenance assessment regardless.
Consent and the Human Tissue Act 2004
Under the Human Tissue Act, it is a criminal offence to take a biological sample from an adult without their informed consent. For children under 16, someone with Parental Responsibility must provide written consent.
Steps to Take Now
- Verify Consent: Ensure all parties (or those with parental responsibility) are willing to proceed.
- Choose a Legal Kit: Order our DNA paternity test kit specifically designed for legal use.
- Book a Sampler: Arrange for a professional to collect the buccal (cheek) swabs.
- Receive Results: Once the lab receives the samples, results are typically ready within 3–5 working days.
Navigating child maintenance can be stressful, but the science of DNA testing is definitive. Our team at Brashan DNA Services is here to provide the trustworthy, clinical support you need to move forward.
Contact Brashan DNA Services today:
Call us: +442046204341
Visit us: brashandna.com
