Chain of Custody DNA Collection in Gallatin, Tennessee
Chain of Custody DNA Collection, Explained
A DNA result is only as trustworthy as the trail behind the sample. Chain of custody is that trail, written down at every step.
Overview
How chain of custody DNA collection works
Chain of custody is a documented record of who handled a DNA sample, when, and how. It begins with verifying each participant’s identity and ends when the laboratory confirms the seals arrived intact.
DNA Paternity Solutions performs chain of custody collection in Gallatin, Tennessee for legal paternity, immigration and other cases where a third party must be able to trust the result.
The difference between a result and evidence
Without a custody trail, a court or agency cannot rule out a swapped or contaminated sample. With it, the result can be relied upon by people who were never present at the collection.
The process
The links in the chain
- 1
Identity verification
Each participant’s photo identification is checked and recorded.
- 2
Witnessed collection
An impartial collector takes the swab in front of the participant.
- 3
Sealing and signatures
Samples are sealed with tamper evident materials and signed.
- 4
Tracked transfer
Every handoff to the laboratory is logged until seals are checked on arrival.
Useful details
Good to know before you test
Why impartiality is essential
The collector must have no stake in the outcome. That neutrality is what gives the documentation its value.
Errors that break the chain
Unlabeled samples, missing signatures or broken seals can invalidate a legal case, so every detail is handled carefully.
Questions about chain of custody DNA collection
Is chain of custody only for court?
It is used anywhere a third party needs to rely on the result.
Can participants test on different days?
Yes. Each collection keeps its own documented record.
Related services
Other options families often consider
Every family situation is different. These related services in Gallatin, Tennessee may also fit your question. See all services
Legal Paternity Testing
Documented identity checks and sealed sample handling, for results that may be presented in court or to an agency.
Read about Legal Paternity Testing
Immigration DNA Testing
Relationship testing to support family based immigration cases, with collection coordinated alongside overseas relatives.
Read about Immigration DNA Testing
Forensic Relationship DNA Testing
Careful relationship analysis for difficult samples and complicated circumstances, including deceased individuals.
Read about Forensic Relationship DNA TestingSchedule chain of custody DNA collection
Take the next step through our online appointment scheduler. For questions about participants, identification or collection arrangements, call us before booking.