Paternity Testing in South Dakota: 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 Dakota.
Why Choose Accredited Paternity Testing Labs in South Dakota?
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 Dakota
GameDay DNA offers extensive coverage across South Dakota through our trusted network of collection centers, including cities such as Eagle Butte, Pierre, Rapid City, Spearfish, Sturgis, and more. Don’t see your city? Contact us to find your closest testing site.
How Much Does a Paternity Test Cost in South Dakota?
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 Dakota
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 Dakota
In South Dakota, individuals seeking to establish paternity have access to various resources to help them through the process. The South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) offers paternity establishment services, which may include genetic testing, legal assistance, and court orders to establish parental rights and responsibilities. DSS can also provide information on child support services to ensure financial support for the child. Additionally, family law attorneys in the state specialize in paternity cases and can provide legal representation and guidance. Establishing paternity is essential for the child's well-being and parental rights, making these resources valuable for South Dakota residents dealing with paternity-related issues. If you need assistance, consider reaching out to the South Dakota Department of Social Services or consulting with a family law attorney for guidance and support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paternity Testing in South Dakota
How is legal paternity established in South Dakota?
Paternity may be established by marriage (child born during marriage), a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (signed at birth or later at the Department of Social Services / Department of Health), or by a court order following genetic testing.
The father's name on the birth certificate alone does not legally establish paternity unless one of these methods is completed.
SD Department of Social Services: Establishing Paternity | Voluntary Paternity Establishment Brochure (PDF) | SD Codified Law § 25-8-7.1
Is DNA testing required to establish paternity?
DNA (genetic) testing is not required if both parents sign the voluntary acknowledgment form. In disputed cases, the court or Department of Social Services (DSS) can order testing for the mother, alleged father, and child.
If the test shows 99% or greater probability, this creates a rebuttable legal presumption of paternity and permits paternity and support orders without further court proceedings.
Voluntary Paternity Establishment Brochure | SD Codified Law § 25-8-57, 25-8-58
Who can request a DNA paternity test in South Dakota?
The mother, the alleged father, or DSS may ask for testing. Legal actions to determine parentage can be started during pregnancy or after birth.
Either party can apply to DSS for services.
SD Department of Social Services | SD Codified Law § 25-8-68
How much does a legal DNA test cost?
In many DSS or court-ordered cases, the alleged father may be ordered to pay the genetic testing costs if he is found to be the biological father. DSS does not provide free DNA testing up front, but may recover costs later.
Voluntary Paternity Establishment Brochure
Is a legal DNA test admissible in South Dakota courts?
Yes, DNA results with 99% or higher probability create a legal presumption of paternity and are admissible without additional testimony. Voluntary Acknowledgment forms are also prima facie evidence.
SD Codified Law § 25-8-7.3
Can paternity be established during pregnancy?
Yes. The process to determine paternity can start while the mother is pregnant, but trial may be held only after the child is born (unless all parties consent).
SD Codified Law § 25-8-68
Can I do a DNA test without the mother's involvement?
The court can order testing of the child, mother, or alleged father, with or without voluntary agreement, if needed to resolve a paternity dispute.
Refusal to cooperate may be penalized; consult with DSS or legal counsel for specific case details.
SD Codified Law § 25-8-57
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.
Are at-home paternity tests recognized by the court?
Only tests conducted under strict chain-of-custody and by a recognized lab, with court or DSS involvement, are admissible for legal purposes. At-home tests for personal use do not establish legal paternity in South Dakota.
SD Department of Social Services
How do I change a birth certificate after paternity is established?
After paternity is established by court order or acknowledgment, you may file to amend the birth certificate with the South Dakota Department of Health, Vital Records.
SD Department of Health: Amendments
Trusted Paternity Testing Services Throughout South Dakota – 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 Dakota, 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 Dakota.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter! If you have questions about paternity tests or other DNA testing services, please contact our Client Support Center at 302-529-1789, Mon-Fri from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern Time. Our friendly, expert representatives are ready and happy to help. Get answers anytime by visiting our Help Center.
