Paternity Testing in South 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 South Carolina.
Why Choose Accredited Paternity Testing Labs in South 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 South Carolina
GameDay DNA offers extensive coverage across South Carolina through our trusted network of collection centers, including cities such as Aiken, Anderson, Easley, Georgetown, Greenville, Laurens, Marion, Moncks Corner, North Charleston, Spartanburg, and more. Don’t see your city? Contact us to find your closest testing site.
How Much Does a Paternity Test Cost in South 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 South 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 South Carolina
In South Carolina, individuals seeking to establish paternity have access to various resources to help navigate the process. The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) offers assistance in establishing paternity, which may include genetic testing, court orders, and legal guidance. DSS also provides information on child support services, ensuring that both parents fulfill their financial responsibilities. Additionally, family law attorneys in the state specialize in paternity cases and can provide legal representation and advice throughout the process. Establishing paternity is crucial for determining parental rights and responsibilities, making these resources valuable for South Carolina residents dealing with paternity-related issues. If you require assistance, you can contact the South Carolina Department of Social Services or consult with a family law attorney for support and information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paternity Testing in South Carolina
How is Legal Parentage (Paternity) Established in South Carolina?
Legal paternity may be established in three ways:
By marriage (the husband is presumed the legal father if married to the mother at birth),
By voluntary signed acknowledgment (at birth or later; creates a legal finding of paternity and can be signed at the hospital or Department of Social Services),
By court order after DNA testing in contested cases.
SC DSS: Establishing Paternity | SC Code §63-17-50
Is DNA Testing Required to Establish paternity?
DNA testing is not required if both unmarried parents sign a verified Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form. For disputed cases or upon request, the court (or DSS) will order genetic testing for the mother, alleged father, and child. The test is conducted at no charge in DSS cases.
SC DSS: Free DNA Testing | SC Code §63-17-50
Do DNA Test Results Prove Legal Paternity in South Carolina?
A DNA test result with a probability of paternity of 95% or higher creates a rebuttable presumption that the tested man is the child's biological father. This is enough to start or finalize administrative and court orders for paternity and child support.
SC DSS Paternity Establishment Guide (PDF) | SC Code §63-17-60
How Much Does a Legal DNA Paternity Test Cost?
If handled through South Carolina DSS or as part of a child support case, DNA paternity testing is provided at no charge to the parties. Private lab testing for peace of mind/self-knowledge is paid out of pocket and costs vary ($179–$400 typical range).
DSS: DNA Testing Info
Is a Legal Paternity Test Admissible in South Carolina Courts?
Yes. Results from official genetic testing and signed voluntary acknowledgments are fully admissible in South Carolina Family Court and for all matters of support, custody, and birth certificate amendments.
SC Code §63-17-60 (Admissibility) | SC DSS Paternity
Can I Do a Paternity Test Without the Mother's Involvement?
The court or DSS may compel genetic testing through a subpoena or order if there is reasonable evidence (such as an affidavit from the mother) that the man is the biological father. The process does not require both parents to agree or to participate voluntarily; non-cooperating parties can be ordered to test.
SC Code §63-17-800 (Court Orders)
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Legal DNA test results usually take 2–5 business days from sample collection and labs notify the court/DSS, then both parties. Expedited private lab results may be available but are not recognized for legal use unless authorized by court/DSS.
SC DSS Timeline
What is the Difference Between Legal and At-Home Paternity Tests?
Legal paternity tests (for court, child support, birth certificate changes) require chain-of-custody sample collection, ID verification, and signed documentation, usually done via DSS or an accredited lab. At-home tests are not accepted for legal proceedings—they are only for personal knowledge.
SC DSS: Legal vs. Private Testing
Can Paternity Testing Be Done After the Child is Born?
Yes, DNA testing can be conducted at any age after birth. There is no statute of limitations for establishing paternity of a minor in South Carolina.
SC DSS Paternity Guide (PDF)
How Can Birth Certificates Be Changed After Paternity is Established?
Once legal parentage is established (by acknowledgment or court order), the parent or guardian may submit a certified copy of the order to the Clerk of Court in the county of birth and request an amended birth certificate from Vital Records.
DSS Paternity Brochure (PDF)
Trusted Paternity Testing Services Throughout South 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 South 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 South Carolina.
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