Free DNA tests are being provided to speed up resolution of disputes over the paternity of children, the justice minister Simon Hughes has revealed.
Because of the cuts to Legal Aid last year, family courts are being inundated with people who have no legal representation. Arguments over who the father is can sometimes take up to 3 days, so a simple DNA test could speed up the process. Pilot programmes in both Taunton and Bristol are providing DNA tests free of charge in an attempt to find out if this is a workable solution.
The pilots are also providing free hair tests - used to assess whether individuals have been abusing alcohol or drugs. The purpose is, similarly, to provide clear answers to common allegations and avoid hours of costly legal arguments and delays.
If you don't have a lawyer to represent you, you're known as a 'litigant in person' and it's not uncommon to feel nervous, anxious and stressed without legal support at your side. Lengthy legal arguments over who the father is and whether somebody is, or is not, taking drugs simply make the problem worse.
If you have to go to Court and don't have formal legal representation, remember that we offer an advocacy service - we'll come to Court with you and help you through what can otherwise be a stressful process.
Have a look at our advocacy page and contact us if you think we can help.
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