Genetic testing will be offered on those days from 7 a.m. to and 7 p.m. at the Mecklenburg County Child Support Enforcement Office, 5800 Executive Center Drive.

This is a very important issue for all children under 17 ½ years of age. This will assist in the need to identify paternity for the child’s social and psychological benefit. This gives the child an understanding of his or her family background and heritage.

Establishing paternity for a child also means that medical issues are potentially resolved before those issues arise. A child may inherit a disease or a medical disorder that is not detected at birth, but may develop later in childhood. If these potential medical issues are known, the outcome for the child’s health greatly improves.

Establishing paternity for a child born out of wedlock also helps the child financially. The child can receive Social Security Benefits, Veteran’s Benefits, and inheritance rights. This gives the child a good foundation to get started in life.

If you have asked yourself “Is the child really mine?” and need to know the answer, please come to the Mecklenburg Child Support Office with your valid photo identification and give 15 minutes of your time.  Everyone involved has a right to know.