Choosing the Right Paternity Test: A VA Beach Guide

adoredna1
Feb 18
2 min read

Paternity inquiries can be difficult. This guide assists in understanding both legal and at-home paternity tests, enabling you to select the ideal option in Virginia Beach, VA. Adore DNA Testing is ready to assist you.

Patient undergoing oral swab test, Direct Media,2025.

Legal Paternity Tests: For Official Matters

Need court-admissible results for child support, custody, inheritance, or other legal matters? A legal paternity test is essential. It follows a strict "chain of custody," meaning samples are collected and handled by authorized personnel following specific procedures, ensuring the results are admissible in court, subject to judicial discretion. Legal tests often require specific documentation, an authorized collection site or mobile collection service, and valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) from all tested parties.

At-Home Paternity Tests: For Personal Knowledge

Need answers for your peace of mind? A standard at-home paternity test offers a private, convenient way to gain that knowledge. Done at home, it involves self-collection (cheek swab). Results are reliable for personal understanding but are not court admissible. Reports do not include names, as identities cannot be verified without a chain of custody.

Legal vs. Paternity Tests You Can Take at Home: A Comparison

Features	Legal Paternity Test	At-home kit
Legal Use	Court admissible (admissibility is subject to judicial discretion)
Chain-of-Custody	Strict documentation
DNA Sample Collection	Observed by neutral third party at authorized location site or through mobile collection.	self collection or third party at an in-office location or through mobile collection.
ID	Government issued photo ID (ex. valid driver's license or passport)
Cost	Higher than at-home testing kits	Lower than a legal test.
Report	Names of tested parties included
Turn Around Time	Seek consultation for Express Testing availability	Seek consultation for Express Testing availability

Need a paternity test? We offer both legal and at-home options to meet your specific needs.

Legal Test: Required for court proceedings. This test requires strict chain-of-custody documentation and identification from all participants.
At-Home Test: Provides answers for personal knowledge.

Unsure which test is right for you? Consider these questions:

Will you need to use the results in court?
Are you comfortable with the chain-of-custody requirements and identification procedures (such as providing government-issued ID) necessary for a legal test?

The skilled professionals at Adore DNA Testing are available to assist you with the procedure. We offer precise, dependable, and private paternity testing services in Hampton Roads.

Looking for the answers you seek? Contact Adore DNA Testing for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation: 877-904-9329.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For legal advice, medical advice, or diagnosis, consult a professional.