DNA Paternity Tests – Can They Be Done In A Father’s Absence?

With DNA paternity testing being the most conclusive way of confirming a biological fathers identity, what happens when a father is not available to be tested?

DNA testing is the most conclusive way of proving a child’s paternity. By taking a sample from both the child and father in question, a lab can identify genetic markers and determine with 99.99% accuracy whether a man is the biological father of a child. Ideally, a DNA paternity test would have samples from both the child and the father in question. However, there are many reasons why a man may not be available for DNA testing: maybe he is unreachable, or deceased, or simply not willing to participate. In any case there are other ways to perform the test and determine whether or not a relationship exists.

DNA Testing - Can they be done on other possible blood relatives?

Advances in DNA testing techniques mean it is now possible to perform a DNA paternity test with members of a family sharing the same genes of an alleged father, and determine the likelihood of paternity over the child in question. These type of tests are know as DNA Relationship testing and are based on the analysis of close relatives.

In the absence of the alleged father therefore it is possible to take samples from the alleged paternal grandparents to establish paternity. Alternatively, many people test siblings in the absence of the father, the results of which make it possible to determine whether or not children are related by either one parent or both parents.

Y-STR testing is one of the most innovative DNA testing methods honed in recent years. This method tracks down the male-only Y- chromosome to establish genetic links between male children and male relatives, for example grandfathers, uncles, brothers and so forth. The Y chromosome is passed on through the generations. Of course if the male lineage is broken then the same Y chromosome will not be passed on.


Whatever your situation, it is advisable to contact in advance the company you wish to use and anyone that you wish to involve in a DNA testing process. Explain your situation fully and inform them of who is available to be tested and they will advise you accordingly on the best testing solutions.  With DNA testing, the more informed and prepared you are the better.

About easyDNA

easyDNA specialize in the provision of reliable, accurate and confidential DNA Paternity Testing, DNA Relationship Testing and DNA Forensic Testing to both the private and public sector. We operate through a network of offices covering a wide geographic area. We currently operate 12 offices around the world including Canada, U.S.A, Italy, Belgium, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, India and South Africa. To contact us with further questions please email info@easydna.net.