The vast majority of people believe that DNA testing is the end all and the be all of proof of relationships. Two major uses for DNA testing today are paternity testing and forensic DNA testing. Paternity testing tells us if a man is the biological father of a child, while forensic DNA testing tells us if a suspect has committed a crime. Both forms of testing are fool-proof, infallable, watertight, and flawless......aren't they?
Unfortunately, there are a number of factors which could lead to false or inaccurate results for each of the two types of DNA tests mentioned.
The number one reason for wrong DNA test results for paternity testing involves chain of custody. Chain of custody is documentation showing proof of the participants. When individuals purchase home kits, they may not collect DNA from the person they say they collected it from. They might intentionally or accidentally switch DNA samples, which lead to incorrect results. It’s crucial that chain of custody stays intact when collecting and processing DNA samples for paternity testing.
There are more opportunities for incorrect results with forensic DNA testing. Chain of custody is another huge factor in forensics, since you are handling evidence and working within a crime scene. Contamination of evidence can be a major reason for wrong DNA results. If a detective touches evidence without taking appropriate precautions, then her DNA may contaminate the evidence sample.
There are a number of other possibilities for wrong DNA test results. Before you decide that the results you receive are accurate and correct, make sure there is a legitimate and thorough chain of custody accompanying those results.
