DNA Genetic Reconstruction

In genetic reconstruction, a series of DNA tests are conducted to determine whether or not a child is related to the alleged father's close relatives. It is an indirect way to determine family relationships when an alleged father is not available for a paternity test. Results of genetic reconstruction may be used as proof in Social Security benefit and other inheritance claims.

In the test, the child's DNA profile is compared with the DNA profiles of at least two of the alleged father's close relatives. A close relative may be a full sibling or a biological parent. Each individual's DNA profile is unique, but close relatives will share a significant portion of their DNA profiles because of the hereditary nature of DNA.

Genetic reconstruction requires complex analytical methods. If only two of the alleged father's close relative are available to take the test, participation of the child's mother is required. If the child's mother is not available, we can only perform the test with the participation of at least three close relatives of the alleged father.