Florida courts use genetic testing, also referred to as a DNA test to determine paternity. The process is simple:

The mother, child and man believed to be the child's father are scheduled for a genetic test. All three must show up for the appointment with picture ID in hand. During the appointment, a lab worker will take a picture of the person being tested and get a fingerprint. Identification is carefully checked to ensure that the right person is being tested for paternity.

The lab worker will then use a small swab to wipe the inside of the cheek of each person to obtain a cell sample to be used for the test. Each sample is then sealed into individual envelopes that are sent to a genetic testing laboratory. The lab compares the samples from the mother, the child, and the suspected father to determine if a match exists. Genetic tests are 99.9% effective and the result is usually accepted by Florida judges.

If you have questions about establishing paternity or your rights as a parent, do not hesitate to contact Ellerin & Hutchinson to schedule a consultation with a Jacksonville family law attorney.

Some insurance companies are now requiring men to prove their paternity before they can obtain coverage for their child under their health insurance policy. The only way to prove one’s paternity is by taking a DNA test, so many men are getting DNA tests in order to obtain the proof they need to enroll their children on their insurance policy.

DNA testing is the most accurate method of confirming the biological father a child, and often the only proof accepted by insurance companies and the court. If you need help establishing paternity, an attorney at Ellerin Hutchinson can help. Matters involving paternity are often complex. Sometimes the DNA testing services used are not recognized by the courts or the insurance company you are dealing with, and therefore you may need a second test. Other times the child’s mother may get in the way by contesting your paternity. At Ellerin Hutchinson, you can rest assured you will receive help and guidance from an experienced Jacksonville paternity lawyer who is truly committed to protecting your interests and helping you achieve what you set out to do.

Particularly in regards to health insurance coverage, we can help whether you are trying to get your child included in your policy, or if a woman is claiming you are the father of her child and wants you to provide coverage. If you don’t think the child is yours, we can help you obtain a paternity test. If the test results indicate you are not the biological father you will not be held responsible for providing insurance coverage.

To learn more about our services, please feel free to contact Ellerin Hutchinson today at (904) 866-4489!