How and When You Can Challenge Paternity Test Results
Sept. 15, 2025
When questions about a child’s parentage arise, paternity tests often play a crucial role in many family law cases. However, in certain instances, the results of these tests can sometimes be challenged.
Whether you doubt the accuracy of a paternity test or believe it was conducted improperly, it’s important to understand how and when you can dispute those results effectively.
At The Alexander Law Firm, LLC in Kansas City, Kansas, we assist families facing challenges related to paternity, custody, and child support disputes. We focus on guiding parents to make informed decisions while prioritizing the well-being and rights of the child. Contact us today for skilled legal assistance.
Information Provided by Paternity Test Results
When discussing paternity test results, it's essential to clarify what these tests measure and how reliable they usually are. A paternity test compares the DNA of a child and an alleged father to establish a biological relationship. Most modern tests use highly accurate DNA analysis methods that provide results with more than 99% certainty when confirming paternity.
However, mistakes can happen. Lab errors, sample contamination, or improper collection can affect the outcome. The results also depend on the type of test. Court-ordered tests generally follow strict protocols, whereas home test kits may not be admissible in court.
If you have serious doubts about the results, you may want to consider challenging them. However, the timing and reasons for the dispute are important.
When You Can Challenge Paternity Test Results
You might question a paternity test result in several situations. The most common reasons include errors in sample collection or testing process, issues with the testing lab’s credibility or certification, use of unauthorized or unofficial tests, new evidence or scientific developments, or suspected fraud or tampering.
If the above cases apply to your situation, it's essential to act quickly. Many states, including Kansas, set deadlines for disputing paternity test outcomes, especially if paternity has already been legally established. Delaying can limit your options to file challenges.
How to Dispute Paternity Test Results Effectively
If you want to dispute a paternity test result, there are certain steps you should consider taking. While the specific steps may vary depending on the specifics of your case, the general steps include the following.
Review the original test and gather documents: This includes the original test report, chain of custody documentation, information about the lab that conducted the test, records of who collected and handled the samples, and any communications related to the test. This evidence will help you organize your case and identify weaknesses in the original test.
Request a second test: A court-ordered retest typically follows strict procedures for sample collection and chain of custody. This can help rule out errors or contamination in the first test.
Investigate test credibility: If you believe the lab was negligent or fraudulent, consider investigating the lab’s accreditation status and any complaints filed against it. Some labs are licensed by state health departments or certified by national organizations, which adds credibility to their results. In some situations, the court might allow additional types of testing, like blood type analysis or genetic marker testing, to complement DNA results.
File a motion: If you decide to challenge the paternity results, you will need to file a motion with the court that issued the original order. This motion should explain why you believe the test was inaccurate and include a request that the court order a new test or reconsider the findings. In Kansas, family courts handle paternity disputes, and they have the authority to set aside paternity orders if new evidence shows the original results were incorrect.
Attend court hearings and present evidence: The court will schedule a hearing where both parties will have the opportunity to submit evidence and present their side. It's essential to attend all court-appointed hearings to support your stance.
Comply with court orders and participate in additional testing:
Await the court’s final decision on paternity status:
What Happens After You Dispute Paternity Results
Once you file a motion, the court process begins. It can take time as the court reviews documentation and schedules hearings. During this period, existing legal obligations like child support or custody orders generally remain in effect.
If the court orders a new paternity test, all parties will participate in sample collection following strict protocols to prevent errors. The court will then evaluate the new test results alongside any other evidence.
If the new results contradict the original findings, the court may modify or vacate the previous paternity order. This can affect child support, custody, visitation, and inheritance rights. However, courts usually prioritize the child’s best interests, which can influence their decisions regarding changes to paternity status.
Tips to Consider When Challenging the Results of a Paternity Test
While every case is unique, some general recommendations can help if you’re planning to dispute paternity results:
Keep all documents organized and accessible.
Act quickly once you doubt the results.
Use certified and accredited labs for any retests.
Maintain open communication with the other parent if possible.
Focus on factual evidence rather than emotions in court.
Prepare for how changes in paternity may affect family dynamics.
Paternity test results influence important legal matters, such as child custody, visitation, and child support. Disputing test results can therefore affect many areas beyond biological status. If paternity is disputed successfully, the court may adjust custody and support arrangements accordingly. But if the dispute fails, the original orders generally stay in place.
It’s also important to recognize that even after paternity is established, some states allow challenges under certain conditions, such as fraud or duress. Understanding these legal consequences helps us analyze when to challenge results and what outcomes to expect.
Reach Out to Our Firm Today
When you decide to dispute paternity test results, it helps to have a clear understanding of the general process involved. Knowing the typical steps can make it easier to organize your efforts and manage expectations throughout what can be a challenging procedure.
While each case is unique, disputing paternity test results can significantly affect a child’s life and family relationships. Whether you’re challenging or defending the results, having clear legal guidance is crucial to protect your rights and the child’s best interests.
At The Alexander Law Firm, LLC, we are committed to helping clients with family matters involving paternity issues. Located in Kansas City, Kansas, we serve clients in Olathe, Overland Park, and the surrounding areas. When timing and accuracy matter most, our firm is here for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.