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forensics testing machine
Forensic Science Center

Relationship Testing

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Forensic Relationship DNA Testing

Marshall University’s Forensic Science Center provides accredited forensic relationship DNA testing services to law enforcement agencies and legal professionals. Whether you’re working a case involving sexual assault, family identification, or a homicide investigation, we offer scientifically sound testing to help determine biological relationships with clarity and confidence.

What Is Forensic Relationship Testing?

Forensic DNA relationship testing—commonly known as paternity or parentage testing—evaluates genetic profiles to determine the likelihood of a biological relationship between individuals.

This type of testing supports investigations involving:

  • Sexual assault
  • Incest
  • Unidentified remains / body identification
  • Custody disputes
  • Homicide or missing persons cases
  1. Sample Collection
    DNA is extracted from submitted materials such as buccal swabs, blood cards, or tissue samples.
  2. Genetic Profile Analysis
    Our analysts examine shared genetic markers across samples to determine biological relationships.
  3. Probability of Relationship
    Standard tests (like paternity) provide results with up to 99.99% probability when a relationship is confirmed.
  4. Legal Documentation
    All results include legally defensible documentation and are performed under strict chain-of-custody protocols.

Services Offered

We provide a full range of forensic relationship testing services, including:

  • Standard Trio Test (Mother, Child, Alleged Father)
  • Single Parent Test (Child and One Alleged Parent)
  • Sibling DNA Testing
  • Reverse Paternity
  • Body Identification
  • Expert Witness Testimony

If you’re unsure which test your case requires, our team will consult with you directly before sample submission.

Sample Types Accepted 

We are equipped to analyze a wide variety of sample types, including:

  • Buccal swabs
  • Blood cards
  • Bone fragments
  • Tissue samples
  • Product of conception (POC)

Testing Requirements

To initiate a relationship testing case, the following documentation is required:

  • Consent forms for all individuals being tested
    • Court order or signed consent form
    • Consent from a legal guardian is required for minors
  • Completed MUFSC submission forms (provided during case setup)

Additional documentation (recommended):

  • Picture ID of mother and alleged father
  • Child’s birth certificate
  • Custody or guardianship documentation (if applicable)

Accreditation & Quality Assurance

Our Forensic Relationship Testing Laboratory is:

  • Accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) for relationship DNA testing
  • Compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 standards, internationally recognized for technical and managerial competence
  • Staffed by graduate-level, proficiency-tested DNA analysts
  • Subject to ongoing audits and quality control measures

We are dedicated to continuous improvement and welcome client feedback to enhance our services.