Legal Cousin Test

During a DNA cousin test, a buccal (mouth) swab is taken from each alleged cousin to collect cells containing genetic information in the form of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). Each person’s DNA represents a unique “genetic blueprint,” similar to a fingerprint.

In the laboratory, the DNA is extracted from the cells, and specific DNA regions are amplified using a process called PCR (polymerase chain reaction). This amplification process focuses on short tandem repeats (STRs), which are regions of DNA where a short sequence is repeated multiple times. STRs are highly variable throughout the genome, making them a reliable way to confirm or refute biological relationships.

By comparing the STR profiles of each alleged cousin, the DNA cousin test can determine the probability of a biological relationship between them.

The main difference lies in how the DNA sample is collected. For a legal DNA test, the sample collection process must be witnessed by an impartial third party following a strict chain of custody protocol, ensuring that the results are admissible in court. Home DNA tests don't require this, as they are often used for personal knowledge and not intended for legal proceedings. There is no difference in the accuracy between our home DNA tests and legal DNA tests.

We understand the urgency often associated with legal DNA testing. Once the samples are received by our lab, you can expect results within 1-2 business days.

To ensure DNA results are admissible in legal proceedings in the United States, the DNA samples must be collected and witnessed following a strict "chain-of-custody" protocol. We offer two convenient options to accommodate your needs:

Self-Arranged Collection: Our home legal option offers the flexibility of arranging your own independent professional, such as a physician, nurse, or notary, for sample collection and witnessing services. This individual must act impartially and cannot be related to you or have any personal or financial interest in the test's outcome.

Laboratory-Arranged Collection: With this option, our experienced laboratory staff will handle everything. They will directly communicate with all test participants to arrange appointments at a time that works for everyone. Our extensive network of sample collection locations spans across North America, ensuring there's always a suitable and convenient location within easy reach.

With our extensive network of collection centers across North America, we can accommodate DNA sample collection for each participant at a location closest to them. Please note, a $25 charge will apply if individuals in the same case are collected at different locations.

Additionally, you may also arrange your own sample and witnessing services with a neutral third party (e.g. a notary, lawyer, doctor), and we'll test all samples together when they arrive at the laboratory.

For legal DNA testing, the sample collection and handling process follows a documented chain of custody. This means that the identity of the individuals being tested is verified (through government-issued ID, photographs, and fingerprinting), and the samples are tracked and documented at every step from collection to analysis.

Legal DNA relationship tests require a strict identification and witnessing protocol to be followed to ensure the correct individuals are being tested.

At the time of DNA sample collection, each participant must bring two forms of legal identification (at least one of these must be photo ID). In addition, the participant must also provide a recent photograph. Lastly, fingerprints are taken as an additional measure of identification. An impartial third-party specimen collector, who has no connection to the case or the individuals involved, oversees and documents the entire process.

Yes, a DNA test can be safely performed on a baby. The DNA sample is collected via a non-invasive cheek swab, which is painless and safe for individuals of all ages.

In a paternity test, it is not required to test the mother in order to obtain a conclusive legal DNA test result. The test can be absolutely conclusive even with just the alleged father and child's samples. However, including the mother's DNA can help strengthen the results, but it is entirely optional

For other relationship tests like sibling or grandparentage tests, the inclusion of the mother's DNA may help in obtaining more precise results.

DNA paternity testing can be arranged online, by phone or by fax. Questions can be directed to the laboratory by email at support@genetrackus.com or by phone at 1-888-802-0703. Our DNA advisors will be able to answer any questions you may have or to help you to schedule an appointment for testing.