While some families begin with parents getting married and planning to have children, some occur unexpectedly between unmarried couples. In some cases, it may not be clear who the father is. This could be at question even when parents are married. When paternity is at issue, parents can take certain steps to not only get an answer but also options when the results are in.
How often do paternity tests show infidelity? It is been told that roughly 10 percent of all assumed biological children are actually the result of infidelity. Although this statement has survived decades, the fact of the matter is that this assertion is actually a myth. In fact, many of the men questioning paternity are not the ones who believe infidelity took place. It is often the man’s new partner suggesting the testing to help them avoid child support obligations.
Current data suggests that 3 out of every four men questioning paternity are the biological father. Despite these figures, men are often convinced that their child may not be theirs. The reason for this is the prevalence of non-paternity over the decades and even centuries. Although men may still stress their concerns that a child may not be theirs, the reality is that more times than not, a DNA test will prove that the child is theirs.
Whether you are seeking to establish paternity to collect child support, initiate a relationship with a child or to prove that your are not the father, it is important to understand how the process works and how it can benefit you. It can be a complex and emotional process, making it essential to take steps to protect your rights.