Paternity Testing in Missouri: Legal Court-Admissible & At-Home DNA Tests
Paternity testing plays a crucial role in confirming biological relationships, resolving family disputes, and securing legal rights. Whether you need court-admissible DNA testing or a convenient at-home paternity test for personal peace of mind, GameDay DNA delivers accurate and trusted paternity testing services customized for your needs. This complete guide covers the types of tests available, pricing details, and answers to common questions about paternity testing in Missouri.
Why Choose Accredited Paternity Testing Labs in Missouri?
Accredited paternity testing guarantees precision and reliability. At GameDay DNA, we collaborate with AABB-accredited laboratories known for delivering legally defensible and accurate results. Whether you face custody battles or want to establish paternity informally, our testing meets the highest industry standards for quality and confidentiality.
Paternity Testing Locations Near Me in Missouri
GameDay DNA offers extensive coverage across Missouri through our trusted network of collection centers, including cities such as Bolivar, Bridgeton, Hollister, Jefferson City, Joplin, Kansas City, Springfield, St Peters, and more. Don’t see your city? Contact us to find your closest testing site.
How Much Does a Paternity Test Cost in Missouri?
Pricing Overview
Legal Paternity Tests: $299–$599
Follow strict chain-of-custody procedures and are admissible in court for child support and custody claims.At-Home Paternity Tests: $179–$239
Affordable, user-friendly kits designed for personal knowledge. Not valid in court but highly accurate when processed in accredited labs.Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Tests (NIPP): $1,099–$2,000
Safe during pregnancy, NIPP can establish paternity as early as seven weeks with zero risk to mother or baby.
Other DNA Testing Services
Grandparent DNA Testing
Useful when a parent’s sample isn’t available. Confirms relationships by comparing genetic markers between child and grandparents.Sibling DNA Testing
Determines if individuals share one or both biological parents, confirming full or half-sibling status.Avuncular (Aunt/Uncle) DNA Testing
Establishes biological ties via an aunt or uncle when direct parent samples cannot be collected.
Step-by-Step Paternity Testing Procedures in Missouri
Legal Testing Process
Sample Collection: Cheek swabs obtained at accredited facilities.
Chain-of-Custody: Samples securely handled to maintain court validity.
Lab Analysis: Advanced techniques with over 99% accuracy.
Results: Available in approximately 2 business days post-analysis.
At-Home Testing Process
Collect samples via cheek swabs from child, alleged father, and mother (if needed).
Send samples using prepaid packaging to an accredited lab.
Receive results securely within 2 business days.
Establishing Legal Paternity in Missouri
In Missouri, there are several resources available to help individuals establish paternity. The Missouri Department of Social Services offers services related to paternity establishment, including genetic testing when necessary. Hospitals and birthing centers provide an opportunity for parents to complete a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP) form, which is a voluntary way to acknowledge paternity at the time of a child's birth. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services can also assist in locating absent parents and initiating legal action to establish paternity if needed. Establishing paternity is crucial for determining parental rights and responsibilities, including child support and access to medical records. If individuals encounter difficulties or have questions about paternity, seeking legal counsel from family law attorneys is also an option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paternity Testing in Missouri
Can I get a paternity test near me in Missouri?
Yes! GameDay DNA, certified labs, and the Missouri Department of Social Services Family Support Division (FSD) provide free legal paternity testing statewide for qualifying families. Testing can also be court-ordered or completed by licensed providers. Most counties have designated collection sites and the state covers the cost for child support (Title IV-D) cases (DSS Guidance: Paternity Testing FAQ).
How Much Does a Paternity Test Cost in Missouri?
Legal/court-admissible paternity tests: $299–$600 for official chain-of-custody testing. FSD offers free or low-cost tests in support cases; the non-custodial parent may be charged if found to be the biological father (DSS Paternity Testing Manual)
At-home/informational kits: $179–$250 for informational use only.
Prenatal (NIPT/NIPP): $1499 for in-lab legal NIPP; $1099–$1,200 for at-home or informational NIPP (GameDay DNA Missouri NIPP). Additional alleged fathers can be added for $100 per person (GameDay DNA NIPP FAQ).
What types of paternity tests are available in Missouri?
Legal/court-ordered DNA paternity tests (via FSD, court)
At-home informational test kits
Non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP)
Grandparent, sibling, avuncular (aunt/uncle), and maternity DNA tests
See Missouri FSD Paternity FAQ and Manual.
Are legal paternity test results admissible in court in Missouri?
Yes! Court-ordered and chain-of-custody paternity tests are accepted in all Missouri courts and must meet AABB lab accreditation and state chain-of-custody standards (MO Statute § 210.834–839). A probability of at least 98% creates a presumption of paternity (MO Statute § 210.839).
How Long Does It Take to Get Results from a Paternity Test?
Results are typically available within 2 business days after the lab receives the samples. Some labs offer results as early as one business day. Expedited options are available for faster results.
Does insurance cover the cost of paternity testing in Missouri?
Most insurance plans do NOT cover paternity testing unless ordered for a specific medical diagnosis (GameDay DNA insurance FAQ).
Can I get a prenatal paternity test while pregnant in Missouri?
Yes! Non-invasive prenatal (NIPP) tests are offered from 7 weeks of pregnancy and are available for both legal/court-admissible and informational use.
Can Paternity Testing Be Done After the Child is Born?
Yes, paternity testing can be performed at any time after the child's birth. It typically involves a simple cheek swab from the child and potential father.
Trusted Paternity Testing Services Throughout Missouri – Accurate, Affordable, and Accessible
When it comes to establishing biological relationships, securing custody, or resolving family disputes, reliable paternity testing is essential. GameDay DNA offers court-admissible and at-home paternity tests with unmatched accuracy and fast turnaround times tailored to your needs.
Serving all major cities across Missouri, our AABB-accredited laboratories ensure legal defensibility and peace of mind. Whether you require legal documentation or personal reassurance, trust GameDay DNA for expert, confidential service.
Ready to confirm paternity with confidence? Contact GameDay DNA today to schedule your test and learn more about our comprehensive services across Missouri.
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