Blog

Non-standard drugs: the hidden threat in parenting assessments

Drug and alcohol misuse remains a frequent factor in family law proceedings, directly impacting assessments of parenting capacity, safeguarding, and contact arrangements. Standard drug testing panels are designed to detect the most commonly misused substances – such as opiates, cocaine and cannabis. However, an increasing number of family law cases involve non-standard drugs: substances not […]

Alcohol testing: a guide to test types and detection windows

The length of time alcohol can be detected in the body depends on the type of sample being tested and the method of analysis. While a roadside breath test can show whether someone is currently over the legal drink-drive limit, laboratory tests can reveal whether alcohol has been consumed weeks or even months earlier. Understanding […]

Home paternity testing: a complete guide

We understand that deciding to take a paternity test can feel like a big step. You might be looking for clarity, reassurance, or simply peace of mind. Whatever your situation, you’re not alone – and getting answers doesn’t have to be complicated. A home paternity test is a fast, accurate and completely non-invasive way to […]

Cocaine on the rise in Ireland: what latest report says about women and addiction

Cocaine use is rising in Ireland – and women are increasingly affected. According to the latest report from the Rutland Centre – one of Ireland’s leading residential addiction treatment centres – the number of clients using cocaine rose by almost 40% in just one year. And women now make up over a third of those […]

Understanding DNA markers: a helpful guide

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the fundamental blueprint of life, carrying the genetic information that makes each of us unique. In the context of relationship testing, DNA holds the answers to some of life’s most sensitive and important questions – from confirming paternity to verifying other family connections. Central to DNA relationship testing are DNA markers. […]

Court-admissible Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) testing: a complete guide for Irish family law cases

Uncertainty surrounding a child’s paternity can cause significant complications in Family Law Court. In cases involving safeguarding, child maintenance, or guardianship, the absence of clear paternity can delay critical decisions, complicate care planning, and heighten tensions between parties. Whilst standard paternity DNA tests are now well understood and frequently used in the legal sector, many […]

World Drug Day: Confronting the rise of deadly synthetics

Each year, the global community comes together to mark World Drug Day (26 June), raising awareness of the challenges posed by drug use and trafficking. This year, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has placed a renewed focus on the growing threat of synthetic substances, with a campaign theme that urges global […]

What to expect at a hair sample collection appointment

Whether you’re due a hair drug or alcohol test or supporting someone through the process, knowing what to expect can provide a great deal of reassurance. Hair testing is widely used in legal settings – including family law and care proceedings – to detect substance use patterns over time. The sample collection appointments are conducted […]

Who’s the father? What to do if you’re not sure during pregnancy

Finding out you’re pregnant can be one of the most emotional moments in your life. But if you’re unsure who the father is, those feelings of excitement may quickly become overshadowed by anxiety, fear, or uncertainty. If you’re in this situation, know that you are not alone – and that there are safe, reliable ways […]

HSE warns of potent MDMA and ketamine ahead of Irish festivals

With summer festival season underway, thousands of people across the country are preparing for weekends filled with music, dancing, and socialising. However, alongside the excitement, the HSE has issued a stark warning about the dangers posed by potent recreational drugs that may be circulating at these events. In its latest drug trend update, the HSE […]