Paternity Testing in North Carolina: 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 North Carolina.
Why Choose Accredited Paternity Testing Labs in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina
GameDay DNA offers extensive coverage across North Carolina through our trusted network of collection centers, including cities such as Asheboro, Cary, Charlotte, China Grove, Cornelius, Dillsboro, Gastonia, Graham, Greenville, Henderson, Hickory, Kinston, Lillington, Lumberton, Morehead City, Mount Airy, New Bern, North Wilkesboro, Plymouth, Raleigh, Red Springs, Roxboro, Sanford, Smithfield, Tarboro, Wilmington, and more. Don’t see your city? Contact us to find your closest testing site.
How Much Does a Paternity Test Cost in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina
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 North Carolina
In North Carolina, there are several resources available to help individuals establish paternity. Hospitals and birthing centers offer the option to complete a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity (VAP) form at the time of a child's birth, allowing both parents to acknowledge paternity voluntarily. The North Carolina Child Support Services can assist in paternity establishment, including genetic testing if needed. Additionally, legal assistance can be sought from family law attorneys who specialize in paternity cases. Establishing paternity is crucial for determining parental rights, child support, and access to benefits. For those in North Carolina seeking assistance with paternity matters, contacting the North Carolina Child Support Services or consulting with a family law attorney is advisable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paternity Testing in North Carolina
Can I get a paternity test near me in North Carolina?
Yes! GameDay DNA, AABB-accredited labs, and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Child Support Services (CSS) provide legal and informational paternity DNA testing state-wide. Genetic tests can be requested privately, through the CSS office, or by court order (NCDHHS Services Overview; Wake County DHHS Testing Info).
How much does a paternity test cost in North Carolina?
Legal/court-admissible tests (CSS/Child Support Office): $25–$50 per participant when ordered via CSS. If the alleged father is excluded, there is no cost for the mother.
At-home/informational DNA kits: $179–$200 (not court-admissible.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP): $1,495–$1,599 for legal/informational NIPP from 7 weeks.
What types of paternity tests are available in North Carolina?
Legal/court-ordered/certified chain-of-custody DNA tests (CSS/court/hospital)
At-home informational DNA test kits
Non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPT/NIPP)
Grandparent, sibling, avuncular (aunt/uncle), and maternity DNA tests
See NCDHHS Child Support FAQ and Cumberland County Child Support Services.
Are legal paternity test results admissible in court in North Carolina?
Yes! DNA (chain-of-custody) results showing ≥97% probability of paternity are considered “clear, cogent, and convincing evidence” and are admissible in all NC courts (NCGS § 8-50.1(b1)(4); SSA Guidance for NC DNA; NC Statutes PDF). Blood or genetic marker test results are required for all actions brought more than three years after the child’s birth or after the putative father’s death.
How long does it take to get paternity test results?
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 North Carolina?
Most insurance plans do NOT cover paternity testing unless it is part of a rare, medically necessary diagnosis (GameDay DNA insurance FAQ).
Can I get a prenatal paternity test while pregnant in North Carolina?
Yes! Non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP) tests are available from 7 weeks in legal and informational forms.
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 North Carolina – 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 North Carolina, 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 North Carolina.
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