The decision to have a paternity test should not be taken lightly and you may have lots of questions. We urge you to consider all of the people involved and to decide whether this is the best course of action, particularly for any children in question. The following are the most frequent questions we get asked.

How are the results analysed?

When carrying out a paternity test the DNA of the mother, the child and the possible father are compared using the latest DNA analysis technology. A child inherits half of his or her DNA from each parent, so every genetic marker in the child’s pattern should be present in either the mother’s or father’s DNA.

In this example the test has identified two markers in the child’s DNA. One of the child's markers (19) has been inherited from its mother; the other has been inherited from its father.

In this example the alleged father does not share any markers with the child and is therefore excluded from paternity (i.e. cannot be the father).

If you require further information, or your question isn't listed here, then please call one of our friendly, professional and confidential Customer Service advisors on 08000 362522, or send your question via email to info@cellmark.co.uk, or use our discrete SMS service.