Analysis of tissue/cells taken from deceased participants (fathers/child) can be used for paternity testing. However, a test to determine the integrity of the samples must first performed to check for the presence of DNA that can be used for the paternity test. Our laboratory needs to be first advised of the state of the sample including size, age and storage conditions. If a legal test is to be performed documentation will have to be provided by us to the doctor collecting the tissue sample.

Deceased sample testing attract a sample verification fee separate and apart from the paternity testing fee. DNA from these tests may not be usable hence a paternity test cannot be carried out. Clients will be advised of the DNA verification results. The turnaround time for this sample verification is 10 working days.

Other samples such as hair and cells from personal items can be used as a reference for a paternity analysis if the father is deceased or not available. As with the deceased tissue samples, these samples must be checked for the integrity of the DNA first before the paternity test can be performed. The lab must be advised beforehand of the type of sample that is available before committing to carrying out these tests.

Unusual sample testing attract a sample verification fee separate and apart from the paternity testing fee. DNA from these tests may not be usable hence a paternity test cannot be carried out. Clients will be advised of the DNA verification results. The turnaround time for this sample verification is 10 working days.

Clients requesting this service will be required to sign an Unusual Sample Authorization Form which states that the client understands the limitations of these tests due the the nature of the DNA in these types of samples.