Could an at-home DNA test be all it takes to connect you to your heritage? Or could it prompt unforeseen consequences — perhaps shaking the foundation on which your family is built? Both outcomes are possible. In Part 1 of our series on direct-to-consumer genetic testing, we explored a few of the unexpected implications these tests can have for couples and families. Now, we share additional stories of difficult circumstances brought about by DNA test results:

Spouses and Cousins

DNA tests don’t merely reveal infidelity — they can show that your spouse is a closer relative than you ever expected. Such was the case for author A.J. Jacobs, who explained on HuffPost Live that a list of cousins he received from 23andMe included his wife. While he merely referred to this discovery as “interesting,” some spouses may be considerably more bothered by such findings — especially as marriage between cousins is prohibited in many states.

An Enlightening Reddit Response

Is ignorance always bliss? Not necessarily. While many people are concerned about the problematic information genetic tests may bring to light, others argue that it’s no better to be left in the dark on these important issues. In a notable Reddit thread, for example, a user complains of a divorce prompted by a genetic test that revealed different parentage than he or she anticipated. User outlnder responded, “Your parents are not divorcing because of your results. Your parents are divorcing because your mother has lied to your father for decades and cheated on your father. They were not as happily married as you thought.” This may be true, but DNA tests can still prompt unexpected complications when results indicate infidelity or other significant breaches of trust.

Regardless of the role at-home genetic testing has played in your marriage or divorce, you deserve support from an attorney who cares. Contact the law firm of Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd. to get started with your consultation.