DNA analysis for parentage verification provides scientific evidence of biological relationships. A laboratory report typically includes the genetic profiles of the tested individuals (e.g., alleged father, child, and sometimes the mother) and a statistical calculation, such as a combined paternity index (CPI) or probability of paternity, reflecting the likelihood of a paternal relationship. For example, a report might display matching genetic markers between the alleged father and child, along with a probability of paternity exceeding 99.99%.
Establishing parentage offers numerous benefits, including legal rights and responsibilities, access to medical history, and a sense of identity and belonging. Historically, establishing paternity relied on circumstantial evidence and physical resemblance. The advent of DNA technology revolutionized this process, offering definitive answers based on scientific principles and significantly improving accuracy and reliability.
