Establishing paternity through a court-ordered test in Iowa is a legal process with far-reaching implications, whether you’re a mother seeking support, a father looking to confirm parentage, or an alleged father contesting paternity. The following are key aspects of how to get a court-ordered paternity test in Iowa.
Why Seek a Court-Ordered Paternity Test?
There are several reasons why individuals might pursue a court-ordered paternity test. A child’s mother may wish to prove legal paternity to secure child support payments. A child’s father may want legal recognition of his fatherhood of the child so he can establish custody and visitation rights. A paternity test could resolve disputes about the child’s parentage and provide a link whereby to obtain the child’s family’s medical history.
The Process of Obtaining a Court-Ordered Paternity Test
The legal process to obtain a court-ordered paternity test in Iowa involves several steps:
- File a Petition: To initiate the process, either parent can file a petition to establish paternity with the Iowa district court. The court will then schedule a hearing to address the matter.
- Attend the Hearing: Both parties will have the opportunity to present their cases at the hearing. The judge will consider the evidence and arguments before deciding whether to order a paternity test.
- Genetic Testing: If the court orders a paternity test, all parties involved (mother, alleged father, and child) will need to submit DNA samples. This typically involves a simple cheek swab.
- Results and Legal Determination: Once the test results are available, the court will review them and legally determine paternity. If the test confirms biological fatherhood, the court will issue an order establishing paternity.
Can You Do a Paternity Test While Pregnant?
Yes, it’s possible to conduct a paternity test during pregnancy. However, these tests are more complex and potentially risky than post-birth testing. One option is the Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test (NIPP). This test analyzes the fetal DNA in the mother’s bloodstream. It’s safe for both mother and baby but may be less accurate than other methods. Another method is invasive prenatal testing. Procedures like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling can determine paternity with high accuracy, but they carry a small risk of miscarriage.
Given the potential risks and complexities, courts rarely order prenatal paternity tests without a compelling reason.
How to Get a Copy of Paternity Test Results
How you obtain a copy of paternity test results depends on how the test was conducted. If the test is ordered by the court, the results will be sent directly to the court. You can request a copy from the court clerk’s office. For tests conducted through Iowa’s Child Support Recovery Unit (CSRU), you can contact their office to request a copy of the results. If you underwent testing through a private laboratory, you should be able to obtain results directly from the testing facility.
Remember, paternity test results are confidential. Only parties with a legal right to the information can access the results.
Challenging Paternity Test Results
While DNA tests are mostly accurate, mistakes can occur. If you believe the results of a paternity test are incorrect, you have the right to challenge them in court. This process typically involves:
- Filing a motion with the court that ordered the original test
- Presenting evidence to support your claim of error
- Potentially undergoing additional testing
A lawyer experienced in family law can guide you through this complex process and help protect your rights.
The Role of an Attorney in Paternity Cases
Handling paternity cases can be legally and emotionally challenging. An experienced family law attorney can:
- Explain your rights and obligations under Iowa law
- Guide you through the court process
- Help interpret test results
- Advocate for your interests in custody and support matters
Contact Arenson Law Group, PC Today to Discuss Your Case
Establishing paternity through a court-ordered test in Iowa is a significant legal step with broad implications. Whether you’re a mother seeking child support, a father seeking confirmation of parentage, or someone contesting paternity, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options.
The Cedar Rapids divorce and family law attorneys of Arenson Law Group, PC are committed to guiding clients through every step of the paternity establishment process. Our experienced legal team can help you understand the legal complexities, protect your rights, and work toward the best outcome for you and your child.
If you’re facing paternity issues in Iowa, don’t hesitate to contact our law firm. Call us at (319) 363-8199 or contact us online to discuss your case and your legal options.
Related Posts:
How to Get an Emergency Custody Order Tips
Become a Foster Parent Requirements
What Is the Punishment for Contempt of Family Court in Iowa?