Journey Genetic Testing 1-855-362-5224

Genetic Reconstruction DNA Test

What Is Genetic Reconstruction?

When it’s not possible to directly test close potential relatives for a family relationship, a Genetic Reconstruction Test is performed. In such cases, other family members might help establish a genetic connection. These tests offer swift and precise answers, and they can even serve as indirect paternity tests. Genetic similarities between family members, such as mother and child, grandparent and grandchild, and siblings, can be proven using this method.

How Accurate Is A Genetic Reconstruction test?

The report gives accurate results for the tested relationship, using DNA profiles. It’s best to include the mother’s DNA. After analyzing DNA, we compare markers from mother (if available), relatives, and child. The aim is to see if the child inherited genetic markers from their biological father. The question is: “Do the alleged father’s relatives share the same genetic markers as the child?”

When the child doesn’t have the same genetic markers as the alleged father’s direct relatives, it indicates that the alleged father isn’t the child’s biological father.

The results are not able to be used for legal reasons. The family members would have to confirm their relationship with the suspected father before testing. Even though they can’t be used legally, the results are 100% accurate. All your testing is done in our parent AABB lab.

When Would I Need A Genetic Reconstruction DNA Test?

Genetic reconstruction is commonly used when:

  • Potential father refuses DNA test
  • Potential father is unreachable or deceased
  • Parties can’t be present for test
  • Individual can’t provide a sample
  • DNA testing must be confidential

Who Can I Use For Genetic Reconstruction Testing?

One example is, if you want to establish indirect paternity for a child, but the suspected father isn’t available. If there are no siblings or paternal grandparents, you can use DNA from the mother, child, and two paternal aunts.

For a genetic reconstruction test, you have two choices based on available paternal relatives and if the child’s mother can provide a DNA sample. If the child’s mother gives a sample, you need at least two DNA samples from the alleged father’s family. It must be from closely related, biological members like mother, father, brother, or sister.

Your second option is to test without the child’s mother’s sample. You will need to send DNA samples from three members of the father’s family. Having three samples helps in building a strong genetic reconstruction of the family DNA. This will then determine if the alleged father’s DNA is present in the child. You could also could a paternal aunt, uncle, and child’s grandmother if the mother is not available.

What Does Genetic Family Reconstruction DNA Test Cost?

Journey Genetic Testing guarantees excellent tests at affordable rates. Each year, we process many DNA samples for lawyers, doctors, adoption agencies, and individuals. Your cost depends on how many people are being tested. We offer a no-interest payment plan with Affirm to make it easier for you.

Check out the fee schedule below for your options. Each private test gives you two collection choices: our Journey Genetic Testing kit or a Make Your Own DNA Kit (MYOK). When you choose our kit, we’ll provide you with instructions, buccal swabs, collection envelopes, and a prepaid FedEx return mailer (available for the USA only). Once your kit is sent, you’ll receive a tracking number for your convenience.

How Many People Are InvolvedPriceResults Available
Mother + Child + 2 Paternal Relatives$1792-3 Business Days
Child + 3 Paternal Relatives $2792-3 Business Days
Each Additional Person$1002-3 Business Days
Each Non-Standard DNA Sample$100+5 Business Days

How Do I Collect DNA For Family Reconstruction Testing

The most precise way to get DNA for a reconstruction test is using a buccal (mouth) swab, similar to a “Q-tip.” Swabs are gently rubbed inside the mouth on the cheeks. It’s quick and easy. All you need is in our Journey Genetic Testing Test Kit.

In some cases, using buccal swabs might not be an option. We can often test alternative DNA samples discreetly. To learn more, click on ALTERNATIVE DNA SAMPLES.

Your DNA kit has clear step-by-step instructions for collecting swab samples. If you need kits sent to different addresses, we can help. Tell us how many kits you need in the order form and provide addresses for each kit.

FAQs About Genetic Reconstruction DNA Testing

What Is A DNA Reconstruction Test Used For?

This type of test is used to confirm if a child is related to the possible father’s close relatives, when the possible father isn’t available for testing. There are, of course, other scenarios when type of test can help solve complex relationship questions.

If you have questions, please either call us at 1-855-362-5224, or complete our information request form and we will get back to you quickly with answers.

How Many People Need To Participate In A Family Reconstruction Test?

The minimum number of participants we recommend is three. There is no set number of people who need to participate, as each situation is unique, and this question is answered on a case-by-case basis. A general guideline is: the more close relatives who can test, the stronger the result.

Can Cousins Participate In This Test?

No. The closer the potential biological relation to the person in question, the better. Biological cousins do not share enough DNA with the child to be helpful in confirming a family relationship.

Can I Use Something Other Than A Mouth Swab?

Not on this test. In order to perform the complex testing involved, a buccal swab (mouth swab) needs to be sent for each person testing.

What If Everyone Lives In Different Cities?

It is a simple process for DNA to be collected at different locations. We understand extended family members are often living in different locations. When you order your test, just indicate how many DNA collection kits need to be mailed to however many family members are participating in the test.

Can The Results Be Used In Court Or For Legal Reasons?

Probably not. Unlike paternity, sibling, avuncular and grandparent DNA tests, most courts do not to accept results for a family reconstruction test, as there is no chain of custody proof of the relatives testing and how they are related to each other, established through multiple DNA tests.

If you need results for court, establishing inheritance rights, or other legal reasons, we suggest a legal paternity test, legal sibling test, legal grandparent test, or a legal avuncular test, which are accepted in court.