As Christmas approaches, it is natural for solicitors to focus on concluding active cases and setting clear objectives for the new year ahead. The coming weeks also present a valuable opportunity to secure the DNA evidence that helps to progress a case and bring closure to your clients, particularly in complex family and inheritance matters.
The emotional context of the holidays
Christmas often brings increased attention to family relationships and legacies. For clients in the midst of family law matters – such as child custody and maintenance disputes – or cases involving probate and inheritance, the emotional weight of an uncertain and unresolved case can feel even greater during the season.
Supporting clients at this time requires both sensitivity and forward thinking. For solicitors, the solution can be in the form of reliable and legally admissible DNA testing, which provides the clarity needed to move cases forward and give clients peace of mind by:
- Prioritising certainty – In ongoing cases that involve children, a legal DNA test provides a clear and definitive way to resolve questions of parentage, helping families enter the new year with clarity and stability.
- Providing closure – Christmas is a time of togetherness and reflection on loved ones who have passed. Confirming biological relationships through DNA testing can be key to finalising an estate.
Certainty in the courtroom
DNA testing can offer emotional reassurance to your clients, answering their questions and removing ambiguity. However, when used for legal purposes, testing must meet strict regulatory requirements to ensure that results are trustworthy, irreproachable and court admissible.
At NorthGene™, legal DNA testing is conducted to the highest standards, adhering to and exceeding the strict criteria set out for legal admissibility. Their service includes:
- Accreditation – NorthGene™ operates to the highest UK standards, accredited to UKAS ISO 17025 and Ministry of Justice approved. This means that their expert team issues legally admissible reports suitable for court submission.
- Dedicated support and expertise – The NorthGene™ team is dedicated to the comprehensive analysis of your client’s samples. They are available to answer any questions you may have, in addition to providing the clear information needed to move cases forward quickly and decisively.
- Streamlined sample collection – With families often gathered during the holidays, NorthGene™ can coordinate sample collections across multiple locations or a single site at your client’s earliest convenience, simplifying logistics.
- Strict chain of custody – The integrity of DNA samples is paramount. NorthGene™ despatches independent sample collectors to complete the collection process in controlled conditions, eliminating any risk of tampering or contamination. Every sample is collected, handled and tested in a fully controlled, compliant environment. Results are issued within 1-2 working days to those listed on the registration form, maintaining confidentiality.
Leaving a critical piece of evidence unresolved over the festive period can prolong emotional and financial strain for your clients. By being proactive and using legal DNA testing, you can manage cases efficiently while delivering the gift of certainty to clients.
Supporting clients when it matters most
Christmas can heighten both emotional sensitivity and practical pressures for those awaiting clarity in family or inheritance matters. By securing legally admissible DNA evidence now, you can streamline the progression of your case towards final resolution, preventing delays and improving case management. At the same time, you can avoid weeks of lingering uncertainty and provide your client with clarity and peace of mind for the year ahead.
Learn more about NorthGene™ on their website or click here to register a case.
This article was submitted by NorthGene™ as part of an advertising agreement with Today’s Family Lawyer. The views expressed in this article are those of the submitter and not those of Today’s Family Lawyer.
