The Standard Trio Paternity Test is a type of DNA paternity test that involves testing the DNA of three individuals: the alleged father, the child, and the biological mother. This test is considered the gold standard in paternity testing because it includes the mother’s DNA, which can help increase the accuracy of the test results.
How It Works:
- Sample Collection: DNA samples are typically collected via a cheek swab from all three participants (the alleged father, the child, and the mother).
- DNA Analysis: The DNA from each participant is analyzed and compared. The mother’s DNA is used to determine which half of the child’s DNA was inherited from her, allowing for a more precise comparison of the remaining DNA with that of the alleged father.
- Results: By including the mother’s DNA, the test can more accurately identify which genetic markers the child inherited from the alleged father. This reduces the chances of a false positive or negative result.
Why Include the Mother’s DNA?
- Increased Accuracy: Including the mother’s DNA helps to eliminate half of the child’s genetic profile, making it easier to identify which markers are from the father.
- Clarification: In cases where the child may have inherited genetic markers from both parents that are similar, the mother’s DNA helps clarify the inheritance pattern.
Typical Use Cases:
- Legal Purposes: The Standard Trio Paternity Test is often used in legal situations where paternity needs to be established with a high degree of certainty, such as for child support, custody, or inheritance disputes.
- Personal Knowledge: It can also be used for personal reasons when individuals want to confirm biological relationships within the family.
Results:
- The results are usually over 99.9% accurate when determining whether the tested man is the biological father of the child.
This test is highly reliable and is widely accepted in both legal and personal contexts.
How is this test performed?
The test involves collecting DNA from the child and alleged father using a soft cheek swab. Although the mother’s sample isn’t required, including it can improve accuracy by determining which DNA comes from the mother and which may match the alleged father.
Why might I have this test done?
This test is ideal for those seeking to privately confirm paternity without needing legal documentation. For legal purposes, refer to our Paternity Legal Test.
How are the results reported?
Results include a Genetic System Table, Combined Paternity Index, Probability of Relationship, and Conclusions. A “0” means no biological match, while a high probability (over 99%) indicates a likely match.
What kind of sample is required?
A cheek swab is needed for the test.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically ready within 5-7 business days after the lab receives the samples.
How will I receive my test results?
Results will be sent to the email provided in your order. Some locations use secure email or a test results portal. Contact the location if you have trouble accessing your results.
Do I need to make an appointment?
No, you can walk in, schedule an appointment, or order a Home Collection Kit where available.
What is your refund policy for at-home kits?
You will receive a full refund if requested before the Home Collection Kit is shipped. After shipment, the sale is final.
Can I order a test for someone else?
Yes, call your nearest location to arrange a kit for someone else.
Do I have to use my real name for the test?
You must fill out the Informational Paternity Test form, but names will not appear on the results. Results will display roles like “Alleged Father” or “Child.”
Is the Home Collection Kit suitable for children?
Yes, the Informational Paternity Test includes sample collection for children.
Will the Home Collection Kit be discreet?
Yes, it will arrive in a plain package with no indication of the test type.
How do I collect the samples?
Step-by-step instructions are included with each test kit.
What happens if the lab can’t perform the test due to insufficient sample?
We will notify you and you can recollect your sample using a new kit for an additional $15 fee.
How do I ship my sample to the lab?
Place the samples and the Paternity Information Form into the pre-paid return envelope and drop it off at your nearest USPS or FEDEX location.
Can I pay with my Health Savings or Flexible Spending Account?
HSA/FSA cards can be used for clinical tests, but not for social-based tests like the Informational Paternity Test.
Can I upgrade my informational test to a legally-admissible test?
Yes, contact us to schedule a legal test, and we will apply what you’ve paid for the kit toward the legal test cost.
Can my minor child order a test without my consent?
No, Home Collection Kits can only be ordered by adults.
Do you have instructions in Spanish?
Yes, Spanish instructions are included in the Informational Paternity Test kits.
How is my Home Collection Kit shipped?
Kits are shipped via USPS First Class Mail. Orders placed before 3 p.m. are shipped the same day.
Can I pick up my Home Collection Kit from the store?
Yes, choose the in-store pickup option during the order process.
Can you ship to a P.O. box?
Yes, we can ship to P.O. boxes via USPS First Class Mail.
Other relevant tests:
- Paternity Legal
- Maternity Test
