Article I. General Rules · Last amended 1992 · Last verified July 20, 2026
In one sentenceRule 100.5 lets an administrative hearing officer recommend that a judge order genetic or blood testing to help determine a child's father.
Full Text of Ill. S. Ct. R. 100.5
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(a)Order to Submit to Tests. Administrative hearing officers may recommend, upon the
request of a party, that the judge order the mother, child and alleged father to submit to appropriate tests to determine inherited characteristics including, but not limited to, blood types and genetic markers such as those found by Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) tests. The judge shall determine the appropriate tests to be conducted and appoint an expert to determine the testing procedures and conduct the tests.
Plain-English Summary
When parentage is disputed, Rule 100.5 gives a path to scientific evidence. At a party's request, the hearing officer can recommend that the judge order the mother, child, and alleged father to undergo testing for inherited traits, including blood types and genetic markers such as HLA testing.
The hearing officer doesn't pick the lab or the method. The judge decides which tests are appropriate and appoints the expert who sets the testing procedure and conducts the tests, keeping that scientific judgment in judicial hands even though the hearing officer manages the rest of the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who orders genetic testing in a contested paternity case?
The judge orders it, based on a recommendation from the administrative hearing officer made at a party's request.
What kind of testing does Rule 100.5 cover?
Tests for inherited characteristics, including blood types and genetic markers such as Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) testing.
Who chooses the expert that performs the testing?
The judge appoints the expert and decides the testing procedure.
Can a hearing officer order testing without a request from a party?
No, the rule ties the recommendation to a party's request.
Does the child also have to be tested?
Yes, the rule covers testing of the mother, the child, and the alleged father.
Amendment History
Adopted April 1, 1992, effective immediately.
Source & verification. Rule text, official Committee Comments, and
amendment history are reproduced verbatim from the Illinois Supreme Court Rules,
promulgated by the Supreme Court of Illinois. Last verified July 20, 2026.
· Official source
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