What happens if none of the presumptions of parentage apply?
If the alleged non-resident parent denies parentage and none of the presumptions of parentage apply, the CSA will usually suggest a DNA test. The alleged non-resident parent and the parent with care will need to agree to take the test and provide samples for testing. The parent with care will need to give consent for the child or children. If the child lives with a person with care and both parents are non-resident, it will be the parents who need to take the test, but the person with care will normally need to agree for the child to be tested. DNA testing may delay the maintenance assessment but it will not alter the date from which maintenance starts. If the alleged non-resident parent is found to be the childs parent they will have to pay any maintenance due. This will include arrears from the date that the maintenance assessment took effect as well as the fee for the test.