Electrophoresis: The method by which biological molecules are separated according to certain characteristics. In DNA parentage testing the negatively charged DNA fragments are cut and separated by size in a porous material such as agarose, by application of an electric field.
Emancipation: In divorce court, “emancipation” does not necessarily mean “legal majority,” i.e., 18 years old. Depending on the state and the educational status of the child, emancipation may occur between ages 18 and 23.
Enzymes: Proteins that serve as catalysts for specific biological reactions. A catalyst is a substance that helps a chemical reaction occur. It remains unchanged itself and so is required in trace amounts. The two most commonly used in DNA testing are the restriction endonuclease Hae III and Taq DNA polymerase.
Ethidium Bromide (EtBr): A dye that stains DNA and is illuminated by ultraviolet or black light on a device called a transilluminator. It is used to visualize DNA in gels following electrophoresis and can be added to the DNA before or after
Exclusion: In forensic and paternity testing the situation that exists when testing has demonstrated that a particular sample could not have come from an individual who was also tested or that the alleged father in a paternity case cannot be the father of the child.
Federal Parent Locator Service (FPLS): A computerized national location network operated by the Federal Office of Child Support Enforcement to help the States locate parents in order to obtain child support payments. FPLS obtains address and employer information from Federal agencies and the National Directory of New Hires.
Forensic: Pertaining to, connected with, or used in courts of law.
Forensic Science: The application of scientific knowledge to questions of civil and criminal law, especially in court proceedings.
Full Faith and Credit: A constitutional doctrine under which a State must honor an order or judgment entered in another State.
