The advent of DNA testing has solved many problems in contemporary society, from areas such as criminal justice, to custody, to healthcare. In the world of estate planning, DNA testing has become a foolproof way for heirs to prove their legitimacy. For those considering using DNA as a tool in their estate dispute, it is important to know how DNA testing impacts estate disputes, and how DNA can and cannot be used in court.
Are At-Home DNA Testing Kits Admissible in an Estate Dispute?
DNA kits are more accessible than ever, allowing individuals to learn more about their DNA, heritage, and health right from their own homes.
However, the results of an at-home DNA test are not admissible in court. In court, evidence must always go through the appropriate chain-of-custody to prove that the results were not tampered with. Even if you present the results of an at-home test, the court will likely require you to perform another court-administered test that can be appropriately preserved.
Does a DNA Match Mean I’ll Get An Inheritance?
In Georgia, testators cannot completely exclude spouses and biological and adopted children under the age of eighteen because these heirs can petition for year’s support. For adult children, even those related by blood to a potential grantor, this does not guarantee that the relative will receive an inheritance. Estate plans are complex and vary greatly from family to family and estate to estate. Consult an attorney to discuss all the aspects of your estate dispute to build the best strategy.
Premier Fiduciary Litigators for the State of Georgia
Gaslowitz Frankel LLC is the Southeast’s premier fiduciary litigation law firm. Our legal team specializes in all aspects of fiduciary disputes with over 30 years of experience representing individuals, executors, trustees, and more in complex fiduciary disputes involving wills, estates, and trusts. Fill out our contact form for free consultation.
