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Service Overview | |
| Pricing | ||
| Paternity Sample Collection Locations | ||
| Information for Lawyers | ||
| Information for Government Agencies and Departments | ||
| Confidentiality / Privacy |
What is a DNA Paternity Test?
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the genetic blueprint that determines a person’s biological characteristics. We inherit our DNA in equal parts, 50% from our mother and 50% from our father.
A paternity test compares the DNA of the alleged father and child to determine if they match at 50% of their DNA. If the DNA from the alleged father does not match that from the child, the alleged father is excluded as the biological father; this is reported as 0% probability of paternity. When the DNA does match, then the alleged father is concluded to be the biological father of the child, typically at a minimum probability of paternity of 99.95% or higher.
DNA samples that are used for paternity testing are collected by gently rubbing cheek (buccal) cells from the inside of the mouth using a soft sponge (one only). The process is non-invasive, quick and gentle enough for babies’ only hours old.
Two Paternity Testing Options
Legal Paternity Test
Clients requiring the results of a paternity test for legal purposes will need to attend one of Maxxam’s 400 certified collection facilities (located throughout Canada, coast to coast) to have their specimens collected and identity documented by an objective third party. The specimen collection and documentation on the Chain of Custody takes no more than 10 minutes per person. Adherence to this strict protocol ensures that the final results are accurate, based on the identity of the individuals who attended the clinic.
Maxxam also provides the service of mobile sample collection in certain locations to support its paternity testing program. Our mobile collectors will contact our client directly to schedule a date and time to attend at the client's home, office or other location they suggest for collection of the required samples.
Appointments for sample collection are usually arranged with 24 hours or sooner of the receipt of a DNA paternity test request.
Home Collection Paternity Test (for non-legal purposes)
The Home Collection Test is available to those who do not wish to use their final results in any legal or quasi-legal proceeding. The samples can be self-collected and submitted to Maxxam, creating a more economical alternative to the legal test. Excluding the ability to validate the identity of the specimens required, the final paternity test results are as accurate as a legally documented test because the laboratory analysis is identical.
Results in 5-7 Business Days
Upon receipt of all required DNA specimens at our laboratory in Guelph, ON, the turnaround time (TAT) for a DNA paternity test is between 5-7 business days.
All Inclusive Price for Paternity Testing
Maxxam offers clients an all inclusive price that includes everything our customers need to complete a paternity test in Canada. Many other testing companies will quote a price that does not include items such as sample collection or shipping. These additional costs can quickly add up to much more than anticipated. With our all inclusive price, you can be assured that there are no hidden costs to deal with later on.
Click here for more information on cost of service.
How to Order a Paternity Test
Starting a paternity test is easy. Our Client Service Agents are experts in helping you to identify the best method and procedure for meeting your specific requirements. Maxxam upholds and respects the security and privacy of all our clients. Your information will be kept confidential both online or through one of our Client Service Agents.
Toll Free (Canada & the U.S.) – 1 (877) 706-7678
International – 1 (519) 836-2400
Email – dnainfo@maxxamanalytics.com
OR
Download the applicable DNA paternity test requisition form and email, fax or mail to Maxxam for processing.
Legally Documented DNA Paternity Test
Home Collection (Non-Legal) DNA Paternity Test