Legal vs. Peace of Mind DNA Testing — What is the Difference?

If you have been researching DNA testing you have probably come across two terms — Legal DNA Testing and Peace of Mind DNA Testing. Both tests use the same laboratory technology and deliver equally accurate results. But there is one critical difference that affects which test is right for your situation.

What is Legal DNA Testing

Legal DNA testing follows a strict chain of custody procedure from the moment you arrive at the collection site to the moment results are reported. Here is what that means in practice. A trained and certified collector verifies the identity of all parties using a valid government issued photo ID. Samples are collected in a controlled environment with no possibility of tampering. All paperwork is completed on site and the samples are sealed and shipped directly to an accredited laboratory.

The results of a legal DNA test are admissible in court and can be used for custody cases, child support determinations, name changes on birth certificates, immigration petitions, inheritance claims, insurance benefits, tribal enrollment, and any other legal matter that requires documented proof of a biological relationship. If there is any chance you will need your results for legal purposes now or in the future, a legal test is the right choice.

What is Peace of Mind DNA Testing

Peace of mind testing uses the same laboratory process and delivers results with the same level of accuracy. The difference is that chain of custody procedures are not followed during collection. This means the results are for personal use only and cannot be presented in court or used for any official legal matter.

Peace of mind testing is the right choice when your situation is personal — you simply want to know the answer for yourself. It is faster to arrange, more affordable, and can sometimes be done through an at-home collection kit. Many people choose this option when they want private confirmation of a biological relationship without the formality of a legal process.

Which One Do You Need

Ask yourself this question: Is there any possibility I will need these results in a legal proceeding?

If the answer is yes or even maybe, choose the legal test. The price difference is modest and upgrading from peace of mind to legal requires starting the process over from the beginning — you cannot convert results after the fact.

If you are certain the results are for your personal knowledge only and no legal use is anticipated, peace of mind testing is a perfectly accurate and more affordable option.

IMT Is Here to Help You Decide

If you are unsure which test applies to your situation our DNA case coordinators will walk you through it before you ever schedule an appointment. Every DNA case at IMT is assigned a dedicated case coordinator who manages your case from collection through results delivery.

Your case coordinator is available to answer questions, explain your results, and add additional parties to your report if your situation requires it. IMT has been providing DNA testing services since 2004 and our laboratory is AABB, ANAB, and CAP accredited — the highest standards in the industry.

Ready to Get Started

Contact an IMT DNA Specialist today or browse our full list of DNA testing services to find the right test for your situation.