Forensic Paternity Testing
Has a parent passed away, and you need to establish whether they were your biological mother or father?
Even after a parent's death, forensic DNA testing may help establish paternity or maternity using available biological samples or DNA from close biological relatives.
At Mjay Santé, we provide forensic DNA testing services to help establish biological relationships in situations where conventional paternity testing may not be possible.
Our Forensic Paternity Testing service may be appropriate when the alleged father is deceased, unavailable for conventional testing, or when a potentially valuable DNA specimen is held by a coroner, medical examiner, hospital, funeral home, or other authorized institution.
- The alleged father is deceased.
- A biological specimen may have been retained by a coroner or medical examiner.
- An autopsy or medical procedure resulted in preserved blood or tissue.
- A suitable personal item belonging to the deceased may be available for testing.
- The alleged father cannot provide a conventional cheek-swab sample.
- Establishing biological paternity is important for an inheritance, estate, immigration, benefits, or other legal matter.
Testing a Deceased Individual
The fact that someone has passed away does not necessarily prevent DNA paternity testing.
Depending on the circumstances, DNA may potentially be obtained from a previously collected and preserved biological specimen, such as blood or tissue. In some cases, other sources of DNA may be considered.
When no suitable specimen from the deceased is available, indirect DNA testing involving biological relatives may also be an option. This can include testing the deceased individual’s parents, siblings, or other close relatives.
Every case is different. The suitability of a specimen depends on factors such as its type, condition, storage history, quantity, and the requirements of the intended testing
Working With Coroners & Other Institutions
Where a potential DNA specimen is held by a coroner, medical examiner, hospital, funeral home, or other institution, Mjay Santé can help guide clients through the process of determining whether testing may be possible.
Depending on the circumstances, authorization or appropriate documentation may be required before a specimen can be released or tested.
Legal & Court-Admissible Testing
When DNA results are intended for legal proceedings, additional requirements may apply.
Mjay Santé can assist with legal/forensic DNA testing procedures, including appropriate identification, documentation, specimen handling, and chain-of-custody requirements.
If your results may be used for matters such as:
- Estate and inheritance disputes
- Succession claims
- Immigration
- Government benefits
- Child custody or support
- Court proceedings
- Establishing biological relationships after death
Please advise us before testing begins so that the appropriate procedure can be arranged.
How the Process Works
Initial
Consultation
We discuss the circumstances of the case and determine what DNA sources may be available.
Specimen Assessment
We identify the available specimen or potential source of DNA and determine whether it may be suitable for forensic analysis.
Authorization & Documentation
For legal cases, the appropriate authorization, identification, and chain-of-custody procedures are established.
DNA
Analysis
The specimen is analyzed using forensic DNA testing methods to examine genetic markers relevant to establishing biological relationships.
Results
A detailed report is provided indicating whether the genetic findings support or exclude the alleged biological relationship.
Not Sure What DNA Sample Is Available?
Don’t know whether the coroner or medical examiner has retained a sample? That’s okay.
Contact Mjay Santé and provide us with the date and location of death, the institution involved (if known), and the relationship you are trying to establish. We can help you understand what options may be available and what information you should request.
Contact Mjay Santé to discuss your case and determine the appropriate forensic DNA testing pathway.
- 514 665-8422
- 438 797-0802
- info@mjaysante.ca
