Genetic Testing and You

              What is Genetic Testing?
Genetic testing examines a person's
genes. A child's paternity can be
determined by looking at genes from
both parents and the child.
What are genes?
Just like all humans have a unique set
of fingerprints, they also have a unique
set of genes. The material that makes
up these genes is called DNA.
How can Genetic Testing tell us
who a child's father is?
Children receive half of their genes
from each parent. DNA is found within
these genes. Therefore, the child's
DNA will also be found in either the
mother's or the father's DNA. Doctors
can compare a child's DNA to his/her
parents' DNA to determine if they are
the biological parents.
When doctors look at the child's
genes, they know which came from
the father by ruling out those that
came from the mother. So, if none of
the child's genes match those from
the man being tested, then he is not
the child's biological father. However,
if those genes match, then he is the
child's biological father.
How accurate are the tests?
Genetic testing is very accurate. It can
show with 100 percent certainty if the
man being tested is not the biological
father. And, it can tell with a high
probability, usually 99.9 percent, if he
is the biological father.
In Illinois, genetic tests must show that
the alleged father is 500 times more
likely than a random man of the same
race to be the child's biological father.
If the test results prove this, then he
can be legally considered to be the
father.
How is the testing done?
DNA is found almost everywhere in
the body, so taking samples is fairly
simple. Doctors can either swab the
inside of a person's mouth to get a
DNA sample or use a small blood
sample (usually drawn from the arm).
Samples are then sent to a laboratory
for testing.
How can I get tested?
There are several ways to get a
genetic testing appointment. If you
receive child support services or wish
to apply for services, a Child Support
Enforcement staff member can make
an appointment. Either parent can
request testing. You can also ask a
private attorney for help.
What should I bring to the test?
You should bring:
• A copy of the Administrative or court
Order for paternity testing (you can get
this either from the Department or a
judge); and
• Two forms of identification; at least
one should have your picture on it.
You might also be asked to sign a
consent form. It allows the testing
facility to test you and later give the
test results to the Department. The
Department will then let you and the
other people tested know the results
of the test.
What should I expect when I arrive
for testing?
• The test will only take about 30
minutes. However, there might be
many people waiting to be tested, so
plan on spending extra time there.
• When you go in to be tested, you
will sign a consent form.
• Staff will ask you a few questions
and then take your picture and finger-print
to be sure the right person is
being tested.
• The person conducting the test will
explain what will happen, so there
won't be any surprises.
Why is a Genetic Test important?
It helps to establish paternity for your
child.