DNA testing analyzes Deoxyribonucleic Acid. Since a child’s DNA is inherited from his/her parents (1/2 from each parent), the DNA profiles of the child and alleged father can be compared to determine whether they match. Similarly, DNA of other alleged relatives can be compared.
DNA testing can establish paternity or maternity and can be used to investigate other possible biological relationships such as siblings, aunts/uncles and nieces/nephews, grandparents and grandchildren.
A DNA test may be conducted with or without the involvement of a lawyer. The results will be accepted in court even without the involvement of a lawyer.
Information obtained is treated in strict confidence and the results will only be provided to pre-determined parties.
All individuals are required to bring acceptable identification (photo identification for adults and a birth certificate or health card) to the appointment and a fingerprint and photograph will be obtained at the time of sample collection.
Either a small blood sample or a cheek swab is required for a DNA test. Prenatal tests and cases involving a deceased individual may also be conducted using a variety of other samples. Contact Orchid Cellmark for further information.
Orchid Cellmark is the only lab in Canada legally licensed to provide both RFLP and PCR technologies. The majority of cases conducted will be completed using PCR technology. However, Orchid Cellmark's access to RFLP technology will be useful for cases which require additional testing.
What
probability is guaranteed ?
The results
of a DNA test for paternity or maternity will guarantee either 0% or >99.9%
probability. This also applies to single parent testing where only the
child and one parent are tested.
How
quickly can I get results ?
Results are
usually available within 10 working days after receiving your samples. For
an extra fee, the turnaround time can be as quick as 3 days.
Is
tax applicable ?
All fees are
subject to GST and in Quebec, QST as well. Tax exemptions are available.
Contact Orchid Cellmark to find out more.
Is
testing possible without the mother ?
A sample from
the child and both alleged parents is preferred. However it is possible
to test for paternity without the mother. Results will indicate 0% or
>99.9% probability of paternity.
Is
DNA testing legally accepted ?
Orchid Cellmark's DNA
results have been validated in court since 1989. Orchid Cellmark has completed over
20,000 cases to date, with no successful legal challenges.
Is
DNA testing regulated in Canada ?
DNA testing
is not regulated in Canada. It is therefore up to the testing lab to ensure
high levels of quality control and accuracy. Orchid Cellmark staff participate in
a number of international proficiency tests and have proven to be accurate
100% of the time.
What
payment methods are accepted ?
Payment by
cash, cheque, money order, Visa or Master Card will be accepted. A payment
plan is available if desired.
Pick up the phone or email us. A Orchid Cellmark representative would be happy to set up your test over the phone immediately. There is no waiting list for appointments with Orchid Cellmark or their collection sites.
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