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RELATIONSHIP DNA TESTING

Indirect Paternity Testing

providing reassurance through relationship testing

An Indirect paternity DNA test helps establish whether a child is biologically related to the alleged father's family when the alleged father is unavailable for testing.

By comparing the child's DNA with that of close paternal relatives — such as an aunt, uncle, grandparent, or sibling — we can provide scientifically reliable insight into biological relatedness.

ABOUT INDIRECT PATERNITY TEST

Indirect Paternity DNA Testing

When the alleged father cannot provide a DNA sample, indirect paternity testing analyses genetic markers shared between the child and available paternal relatives. This approach offers a practical path to answers without requiring the alleged father's direct participation.

  • Ideal when the alleged father is unavailable, deceased, or unwilling to test
  • Compares DNA markers between the child and paternal relatives
  • Confidential testing with internationally accredited laboratory standards

Our specialists help you choose the right relatives to include so your results are as informative as possible for your situation.

Father and child playing together
OUR TESTS

How Indirect Paternity DNA Testing Works

Here is a step by step procedure on how to book an Indirect Paternity DNA Test at Smart DNA.

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Four-step indirect paternity DNA testing process
  1. 01

    Consult With A Genetic Counselor

    Speak with our team to confirm the most suitable relatives to test and understand what your results can tell you.

  2. 02

    Book Your Appointment

    Schedule sample collection at our office or arrange a convenient collection option for all parties involved.

  3. 03

    Sample Collection

    We collect simple cheek (buccal) swabs from the child and the alleged paternal relative(s). The biological mother can also be included where available.

  4. 04

    Get Results

    Your samples are analysed in our accredited laboratory. Results are typically ready within 5 to 7 working days.

In aNutshell

Who is tested:
Child and alleged paternal relative (aunt, uncle, grandparent, or sibling). Biological mother can also be included where available.
Timeframe:
Results are ready within 5 to 7 working days after collecting DNA samples.
Samples needed:
Simple cheek swab samples from the child and the relative(s) being tested.

Types Of Indirect Paternity Testing

Avuncular DNA Testing (Aunt/Uncle Testing)

Compares the child's DNA with that of a paternal aunt or uncle to help establish whether they share a biological relationship through the alleged father.

Grandparent DNA Testing

Analyses DNA from one or both paternal grandparents against the child's profile to help determine biological relatedness when the alleged father is unavailable.

Sibling DNA Testing

Compares DNA between alleged full or half siblings to assess whether they share the same biological father.

Important Note About Indirect Testing

Indirect paternity tests are highly informative, but they are not a direct substitute for testing the alleged father when he is available. Including additional relatives — and the biological mother where possible — can strengthen the statistical analysis and improve the clarity of your results.

Our team will guide you on the best combination of participants for your situation so you can make an informed decision before ordering.

Father carrying a young child

Your Test Is In Safe Hands

Smart DNA works with internationally recognised standards and accredited partners so your relationship testing is handled with accuracy, care, and confidentiality.

Organisations and laboratories that accredit Smart DNA testing