Can DNA paternity tests be wrong?
Yes, paternity test results can be wrong under the following circumstances:
- Human error: mishandling of a DNA sample at the lab (which is rare).
- Intentional submission of someone else’s DNA samples.
- Rare genetic mutations.
How often are paternity tests wrong?
It is estimated that about 1% of paternity test results are wrong. This means that out of every 1,000 paternity tests performed, about 10 will have incorrect results. The most common cause of errors is human error.
This may occur from a person who purchased a Home DNA test kit, DNA sample collector, or mishandling of samples by shipping companies like FedEx or UPS. There are many steps involved in paternity testing, and each step has the potential for error. For example, the DNA samples from the father and child might be mixed up or contaminated with DNA from other people.
Another possibility is that the DNA profiles of the father and child do not match because of a mutation. Mutations are changes in the DNA that can be passed down from generation to generation. While most mutations do not cause any problems, some can affect the results of a paternity test:
- False positive result: A mutation changes the DNA in a way that incorrectly indicates a biological relationship.
- False negative result: A mutation changes a person’s DNA profile so that it looks like they are not related when they actually are.
Tampering
In very rare cases, paternity tests are wrong because of intentional tampering. For example:
- A man might falsify paternity test results by using someone else’s DNA.
- A woman might try to change the results by tampering with the DNA sample.
- In extremely rare cases, shipping company employees might intentionally mishandle the DNA samples. If this is suspected, a re-collection of samples would be necessary.
What are the consequences of a wrong DNA test results?
Wrong paternity test results can have significant consequences:
- Financial: Meaning the real biological father may not be supporting the child financially which could affect the child’s upkeep.
- Emotional: Families and individuals may experience stress, confusion, or damaged relationships.
- Legal: Depending on the situation, there could be legal ramifications, especially if the error affects court decisions about custody or support.
The severity of these consequences often depends on how the erroneous result occurred and how it was used. If you believe your results were produced in error, We recommend performing another DNA test with one or more DNA testing company to ensure your results are consistent.