CELLMARK DOES NOT OFFER A NON COURT-APPROVED "PEACE OF MIND" DNA TESTING SERVICE.

We believe that our customers get peace of mind by knowing that their paternity test will be carried out professionally and reliably by the UK's most experienced paternity laboratory. Our customers know that they can trust Cellmark's test results and be certain that they will be legally accepted.

So called "Peace of Mind" paternity tests, otherwise known as "curiousity testing", "self sampling testing" and "home testing" do not follow the same rigorous standards that Cellmark's "Court Approved" DNA tests do.

• By their very nature of being "home" or "self-sampled" no independent sampler is required and these tests therefore do not meet the standards as set down by the Dept. of Health's voluntary code of Practice. All reputable DNA testing services abide by the Code of Practice.

• All persons to be tested must still sign a consent form - this is an absolute requirement under the Human Tissue Act 2004, and failure to ensure this can open yourself up to the offence of "DNA theft" which is punishable by a prison sentence of up to 3 years and/or a fine of £3000 even if your smaple is sent overseas).

• A number of companies offering DNA testing services over the Internet use laboratories which are based outside of the UK to conduct the testing. These laboratories are outside the scope and control of UK legislation.

• Prospective customers should be aware that some of these Internet based companies are marketing agencies for US based laboratories and not DNA specialists.

Electing to have a "peace of mind" DNA test may not be the "cheapest option".

Should you decide to have a "peace of mind" paternity test, otherwise known as "curiousity testing", "self sampling testing" and "home testing" and subsequently end up having to go to court to resolve the issue you will need to undergo another test

If the result of a 'peace of mind' test can be questioned, perhaps by those involved in the test or other interested parties, how much real peace of mind do they really provide?

We recommend that you talk to a third party such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, your GP or a family friend.  Alternatively you can call Cellmark free on 08000 362 522 for free, confidential advice.