Pennsylvania Title 23, Section 5104, outlines the procedures for paternity testing, including expert witness compensation, the impact of test results on paternity determinations, and the presumption of legitimacy. It specifies how courts should handle expert fees and the legal effect of DNA test outcomes on establishing or refuting paternity. Additionally, Section 5105 prohibits fingerprinting children aged 12 or younger for name change purposes.
DNA test results can confirm or refute paternity, and if all experts agree the alleged father is not the father, paternity is disproved. Disagreements lead to a full review of all evidence.
The court fixes expert witness fees at a reasonable amount, which can be paid by the parties, the county, or both, as ordered by the court.
No, children 12 years or younger cannot be required to submit fingerprints for name change procedures in Pennsylvania.
The presumption of legitimacy is overturned if all expert conclusions indicate the husband is not the father, leading to a possible legal change in paternity status.