Risks of Outsourcing Paternity Tests Overseas

When outsourcing paternity testing in Japan to an overseas institution, several important points must be understood. In recent years, advances in technology have made it possible to send genetic samples not only to facilities in Japan, but also to overseas institutions for paternity testing. However, it is necessary to proceed with caution regarding legal aspects and reliability.

Reasons for Outsourcing Paternity Tests Overseas

Low cost: In some countries, the cost of a paternity test is set lower than in Japan, which is why some clients use foreign institutions to keep costs down.
Rapid results delivery: Some foreign institutions can provide results in a relatively short period of time, which may be used when results are needed quickly.
High technology: Specialized overseas institutions offering the latest DNA analysis technology may be selected for their high accuracy.

2. Points to note

Effectiveness of the Law

If you wish to conduct a legally valid paternity test in Japan, the results of an overseas-commissioned test may not be legally admissible. Japanese courts and administrative agencies generally accept as evidence only the results of appraisals conducted at accredited facilities in Japan. Therefore, we recommend that appraisals be conducted in Japan when used in legal proceedings.

Sample handling

When sending samples overseas, care must be taken to ensure that the samples are well preserved and that they are not damaged in transit.If proper procedures and storage are not followed, samples may be damaged or deteriorate.It is important to use a reputable vendor and ensure proper procedures are followed.

Reliability of appraisal results

International appraisal agencies vary in standards and quality from country to country. If you are concerned about the accuracy or reliability of results, it is recommended that you conduct sufficient research and use an internationally recognized accredited institution; an indication of reliability is an appraisal at an institution with international certification such as ISO 17025.

Privacy Protection

When sending DNA samples overseas, care must be taken to protect personal and genetic information. Since each country has different privacy laws and data protection rules, it is important to confirm in advance whether the samples will be handled appropriately. In particular, check security and privacy policies to ensure that genetic information is not leaked to third parties.

3. general procedures for overseas consignment

Selecting an Agency: Select a reputable international DNA testing agency. It is important to check for international accreditation, reviews, and track record.
Sample Collection: Samples are collected in Japan and sent to an overseas laboratory with appropriate preservation methods. Oral swab samples are commonly used.
Analysis and delivery of results: The laboratory analyzes the sample and provides the results.In most cases, results are sent via email or mail.
Use of results: Can be used for personal verification, but if you are considering legal use, you must verify that the results are legally valid.

4. Advice on seeking a legally valid paternity test

If you wish to conduct a legal paternity test, it is recommended that the test be conducted by a legally recognized and accredited organization in Japan, rather than outsourcing it to an overseas organization. If the evidence is to be used as necessary evidence in a court case, inheritance, or custody dispute, the procedure must be legally valid in Japan.

Summary

Outsourcing parent-child appraisals overseas in Japan offers advantages such as cost and quick turnaround, but one must be careful about issues such as legal validity, sample handling, and privacy protection. In particular, if you intend to use the test results for legal purposes, it is recommended that the test be performed by a certified domestic organization.