Comment on court ordered DNA tests
For immediate release 17 February 2015
FNF Comment on Court Ordered DNA Tests
A POSITIVE MOVE FOR FAMILIES IN DISPUTE
Families Need Fathers welcomes the announcement today (17/2/2015) that from September 2015, family court judges in England will be able to order DNA tests to determine a child’s parentage where this is disputed during proceedings. This will be funded by the Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS).
Currently, parents are required to pay for DNA testing, and the costs and delays of resolving paternity disputes during proceedings can significantly hinder the legal process.
Jerry Karlin, Chair of Families Need Fathers, said, “Although questions about paternity are not a feature of the majority of cases in the family courts, it can be a substantial barrier for parents when it is an issue. The introduction of court ordered and funded DNA testing will assist courts in making the right decisions for children without unnecessary delay, whilst also providing peace of mind to the parents involved.”
The introduction of this scheme nationally follows pilot schemes that were carried out in Taunton and Bristol.
ENDS
For comment, case studies or information please contact:
Ross Jones, Policy & Communications Manager 0300 0300 110
Note for editors:
The Ministry for Justice press release announcing this move is available here.
Families Need Fathers (FNF) is a registered charity providing information and support on shared parenting issues arising from family breakdown, and support to divorced and separated parents, irrespective of gender or marital status.
Our primary concern is the maintenance of the child’s relationship with both parents.
Founded in 1974, FNF helps thousands of parents every year.
What do you think?
Send us feedback!