Paternity disputes arise when there is disagreement about who the biological father of a child is, often in the context of maintenance, inheritance, or relationship breakdown. DNA testing has made it technically easy to answer the biological question, but legal and privacy concerns remain.

Courts do not order DNA tests lightly. They balance:

• The child’s best interests,
  
• The mother’s privacy and dignity,
  
• The alleged father’s right to clear his name or confirm paternity,
  
• The social impact of disturbing established relationships.
  

In some cases, refusal to undergo a DNA test can lead to adverse inference, but forced sampling is sensitive. Judges usually look for strong prima facie reasons before interfering. For young children, emotional and social stability may weigh heavily.

Test results, once accepted, can affect custody, maintenance, and inheritance claims. They may also disrupt family trust and standing in the community. That’s why courts repeatedly stress that paternity challenges should not be raised casually or as a weapon in marital fights.

Handled carefully, DNA testing can bring clarity and fairness. Handled recklessly, it can cause deep and unnecessary damage to a child’s sense of identity.