About Sample Collection for Legal Testing
When using the appraisal report for legal procedures, it is necessary to prove that 'the sample was definitely collected from the test subject'.
For this purpose, samples will be collected under a witness designated by seeDNA.
As a sample collection witness, seeDNA has partnered with over 200 legal offices nationwide that are well-versed in legal operations such as confidentiality and compliance, as well as specialized knowledge. We provide an environment where test subjects can collect samples with peace of mind. For details, please check at the time of application.
Regions where witness sample collection is possible
Regions where witness sample collection is possible are located nationwide (see the list below).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What is sample collection for legal DNA testing?
A.
Sample collection for legal DNA testing is a procedure to collect a sample from the test subject under a designated witness to use the appraisal report as evidence in legal procedures such as trials and conciliations. By the witness verifying the identity and certifying the collection process, the legal evidence capability of the appraisal result is secured(1).
Q.Why is sample collection under a witness necessary?
A.
When submitting a DNA testing result as evidence in a legal procedure, it is necessary for a third party to prove that 'the sample was undoubtedly collected from the test subject themselves'. Samples collected without a witness may not be recognized for evidence capability in court. At seeDNA, experts from legal offices familiar with confidentiality and compliance act as witnesses(2).
Q.Which regions are supported for witness sample collection?
A.
seeDNA supports all 47 prefectures and South Korea. There are over 200 partner legal offices nationwide, and the number of bases in major cities is as follows: 14 in Tokyo, 8 in Hokkaido, 8 in Tochigi, 8 in Niigata, and 7 each in Kanagawa and Hyogo. Specific witness locations will be guided at the time of application.
Q.What kind of person is in charge as the witness for sample collection?
A.
Experts from partner legal offices of seeDNA will be in charge as witnesses. The witnesses are familiar with legal tasks such as confidentiality and compliance, in addition to specialized knowledge regarding sample collection for DNA testing. This allows for legally valid sample collection while protecting the privacy of the test subject.
Q.Can I take a legal DNA test even during pregnancy?
A.
Yes, seeDNA also supports prenatal fetal DNA testing during pregnancy. Through non-invasive testing (NIPT method) that analyzes the fetal DNA from the mother's blood even before birth, the appraisal necessary for legal procedures can be performed. Details can be checked on seeDNA's fetal DNA testing page.
References
- (1) Courts "Procedures concerning parent-child relations (denial of legitimacy, recognition, etc.)"
- (2) seeDNA Medical Research Institute "About Legal DNA Testing"
- (3) Ministry of Justice "Overview of the revised Civil Code concerning the review of the presumption of legitimacy system, etc."