Paternity testing
October 2007
Genetic information is increasingly being used to establish family relationships, usually but not exclusively paternity. In the past this involved the taking of blood samples and so health professionals were invariably involved in the process, but developments in technology have led to tests being carried out on other material such as a few hair follicles or a mouth swab. These developments have also led to the provision of paternity testing direct to the public, using testing kits that are sent off for analysis. This raises the possibility of samples being tested without the consent of all parties.
This guidance, which may be downloaded as a pdf document using the link on the right, discusses
- The legal position
- Ethical obligations
- Adults with incapacity
- “Motherless” testing
- Testing without consent
Download the guidance on paternity testing in PDF format (68K)
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