Terms and Conditions of Use
Please read these Terms and Conditions of Use carefully. By using this website, and/or any services provided by Journey Genetic Testing, LLC, whether by phone or through one of our websites, you agree that you understand, accept, and are bound by these Terms and Conditions, including all amendments made from time to time. If you do not agree to these Terms and Conditions, you agree not to use this website or its services.
Intent
Journey Genetic Testing, LLC (hereafter referred to as Journey or Journey Genetics), and any other web domain names operated by Journey or our parent company, is intended to provide you with DNA testing services. The DNA test reports are intended to provide you with laboratory test results to be used by you for your personal use only. Our services are not intended to provide you with any medical or legal advice. We assume no responsibility for how you use the information you obtain from this site and its services. You may use this website and the services provided for your personal, non-commercial purposes. This website is intended for use by individuals who are over 18 years of age. Journey is not responsible for any misuse of this site, intentional or non-intentional
Limitations of Liability and Disclaimer
Journey and its employees, contractors, testing facilities and laboratories, and their respective vendors and employees are not liable in any way for any damages, costs or expenses incurred for any reason in connection with the use of Journey products or services, or in connection with the DNA tests, the use and/or disclosure of the test results, or other personal information. In respect to direct loss, the total liability for any and all claims, whether arising from negligence or otherwise, shall not exceed the price of the amount paid, if any, directly to Journey for its service.
Indemnity
You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Journey and its affiliated companies, suppliers, partners, directors, officers, agents, employees and representatives of each of them, from and against all claims, losses, costs and legal fees arising out of your activities in connection with your use of this site and its services, any violation of the Terms and Conditions for using this site, and any content that you make available on Journey sites including but not limited to any violations of copyright or trademark or the rights of any party.
You are not permitted to copy or distribute any materials presented to you on the Journey site, including but not limited to, logos and text. Logos are Trademarks and Service Marks of Journey, and all text is copyrighted material.
This site and services associated with this site are provided by Journey without any representations or warranties of any kind regarding the operation of this site and the content contained in this site. Journey makes no representations concerning the suitability, reliability or accuracy of the contents of its site or the contents posted by users to the site, or the testing results for any particular purpose. In no case will Journey be liable for any damages of any kind arising from the use of this site and its services, including direct, indirect, or punitive damages, even if advised of the possibility thereof. Journey and its affiliated companies disclaim all warranties with respect to the site and any content contained thereon and the submissions and any responsibility to archive or maintain such submissions.
Journey reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to terminate your use of Journey sites and services for any reason at any time, including a belief by Journey or its Representatives that you have violated these Terms and Conditions. Termination can include deletion of your account and all related information associated with your account. There will be no refund due in these cases. Journey is not liable to you or to any third party for any termination of your services and/or deletion of your content from the Journey site. All testing services, or additional services, must be prepaid prior to any action on the part of Journey. Journey does not accept any samples or requests for testing prior to payment, and will refuse to test any samples not ordered and/or paid for, or ship any collection kits, or provide a Make Your Own Kit (MYOK) submission letter, prior to payment in full.
Informed Consent
By submitting a sample for analysis, you as the customer warrant that you have the right to take and submit such samples for DNA testing and that you provides Journey and its testing laboratory with authorization to conduct the DNA testing on the samples. By submitting a sample for testing you warrant that either you are the owner of the sample or have full authority by the owner of the sample to submit the sample for testing. Minors must have approval and consent from their legal guardian.
Chain of Custody (“Legal”) DNA Testing
Legal DNA testing results are available through Journey testing and our affiliate AABB accredited laboratories. AABB requirements state that a third party, who has no interest in the outcome of the testing, must receive the legal DNA kit(s). Journey may be requested to send a legal DNA kit(s) to a certified collector/collection site based on the zip code provided on the order form. There is no guarantee of a collection site in every zip code. We will send the kit to the closest location in these cases and notify the ordering party of the location, via email, after the kit(s) has been shipped. The responsibility of paying any collection fee to the person performing the collection belongs to the person being tested, or the person ordering the test. Journey is not responsible for any collection fee that may be required. If we are notified by the collector that a collection fee is due and has not been paid, testing will be halted or results not released, until payment to the collector is made.
In the event the ordering party chooses to have the collection kit sent to a party of their choosing, and that party is not a certified DNA collector, Journey will make web based training available at no charge for the collector. The collector will need to be certified through this training, if they are not already certified, prior to the collection. This training is only made available after an order for legal testing is placed and paid for.
Disclosure of Account Information
Journey will not, under any circumstance, discuss a case or testing results with any person, including the ordering party over the phone. All requests for information concerning a case must be submitted on a support ticket. Any phone calls regarding current cases will be referred to the support form.
The reason for this is as follows:
- We value your privacy. By requesting all communication be via email to the email address provided at the time of the order, we seek to eliminate the possibility of any unauthorized person or persons obtain information they do not have a right to;
- We use the written communications as part of your case file. This allows us to review in an objective manner any issues that may arise on your case and helps eliminate communication errors before and after the case is completed. Support tickets are answered in most cases within 24 hours during regular business hours. By using this website you agree to this method of communication and understand our reasons for doing so.
Refund Policy
By purchasing a DNA test from Journey either through our online order form, or over the phone, you are agreeing to the following terms of sale.
Due to the personalised nature of the DNA collection kits, including the Make Your Own Kit option, which is customised for each client, all payments are final and no refunds will be processed.
Private Testing Results
Each private test includes one digital report that will be electronically provided to the ordering party on a private client page that will be created once all samples have arrived at the lab that are to be tested. In the event any additional services are requested, and Journey chooses to provide those additional services, additional fees will apply. Please see the section titled Service Fees and Testing Information above for a list of additional fees. A report is considered delivered once it has been posted and an email notification is sent to the email address associated with the order.
Specific results are not guaranteed. In most cases a conclusive result can be obtained, however as we are unable to determine what each genetic profile is prior to receiving the DNA sample, this cannot be guaranteed. There are a small number of cases that may require additional alleged or known family members to be added to the case for a stronger result. First order relationship testing kits include a Rider explaining this which must be completed and returned with the DNA samples. Testing will not be initiated without a signed First Order Index Rider for each person testing for Sibling, Grandparent, and Avuncular tests.
If possible, it is always recommended to include/test a known parent of the child in question to a first-order index test to allow the most conclusive results possible. Sibling, grandparent, avuncular, and paternity testing may add the mother at the time of the order at no additional cost. If additional parties are added after the testing has been completed, or additional testing is requested using existing samples, there will be additional fees for testing.
First order index tests include the Avuncular, Grandparent, and Sibling test. First order index tests are typically used to determine the percentage of probability that two people share a biological relationship. The test is strictly a statistical analysis of the biological material two people have in common. The results of a first-order index test will determine whether two people are more or less likely to be related based on the genetic material exhibited by each person and the result will determine an avuncular, grandparent or siblingship index.
Sibling test results provide a probability of relationship between one known (primary) sibling and one or more additional siblings. Primary siblings are determined by a) being listed as the primary sibling on the order form, or b) the first sibling listed as being tested if no primary sibling is designated. If information is provided on the order form that indicates the testing should be conducted differently that what is ordered, Journey will use that information to determine the best type of test to perform. The decision of Journey is final in these cases. If two or more of the individuals performing a half sibling test are known first cousins, there is a possibility that a false inclusion may occur due to the high percentage of DNA shared between those two relationships. A direct paternity test with both suspected fathers in these cases is encouraged to be performed in place of a sibling test when a cousin relationship exists.
Grandparent and avuncular testing results show the probability of relationship between a child (minor or adult) and a suspected relative (grandparent or aunt or uncle).
If the index is less than 1.00, this indicates likelihood of non-relatedness. If the index is greater than 1.00, this indicates that the two tested individuals are more likely to be true biological relatives: The higher the value of the index, the greater the likelihood that the two individuals are true biological relatives. First-order index tests may not provide conclusive results in some cases.
Upon ordering testing services, either by phone or on a Journey owned website, all customers agree that they are familiar with, and agree to abide by, the Journey explanation of private testing provision and understand that all testing fees are final. It is also understood and agree to that there are no exceptions to this policy.
Alternate Sample Submission
Any sample submitted for DNA testing other than a buccal/cotton swab or blood card (FTA card) from a certified Medical Examiner is considered an alternative sample. A Non-Standard Sample Rider will be required to be signed and returned with the alternative sample prior to the lab testing the sample.
Journey is not responsible for the quality or suitability of any such sample submitted. Different samples have various degrees of success when performing DNA tests. It is understood and agreed that by submitting such a sample that there may be times that insufficient DNA profiles may be obtained from the samples submitted and the sample may not be suitable for testing. It is understood and agreed that by having Journey exam the DNA sample provided, whether a successful DNA profile is obtained or not, that the testing has been completed and that no refund will be made if the sample is not compliant (unable to provide a DNA profile to be tested). If an additional sample is desired to be sent there will be an additional fee charged prior to testing for the new DNA sample.
Non-Compliant Samples
By submitting the sample, the customer agrees that they have complied with the sample collection instructions provided in the kit or on our website. If we find out during the testing, or after the testing has been completed. that your sample or any required documentation is non-compliant because the instructions were not followed, or if the samples have been deliberately tampered with, the case will be closed and no report will be issued. There will be no refund of fees paid under any condition for non-compliance. If additional testing is requested, the full cost of a new test will be charged.
DNA Samples Cannot Be Returned
Once a DNA sample is submitted to the laboratory, it will be consumed for the purpose of the DNA test. The sample will not be returned to the submitter.
Time Allowed For Returning Samples
After purchasing a Journey DNA test (i.e. paternity test, family relationship test, or ancestry kit), whether a kit is ordered or you choose the Make Your Own Kit option, you have 90 days to collect the DNA samples and send those samples to the lab for testing. If the samples are not received, and testing is not initiated within 90 days of the purchase date, your account will become inactivate. If you do not provide all DNA samples for processing, you may submit a request for Journey to consider reinstating your case. The option to reactivate an account is at the sole option of Journey, and our decision is final. A $100.00 reactivation fee will apply to reactivate your account once it has become inactivate. After six months from the date of purchase there can be no reactivation of the account if samples have not been returned. There are no refunds for accounts that have become inactive.
While in some cases Journey may provide a prepaid return label to USA addresses , it is the responsibility of the ordering party to make certain that the DNA samples arrive at the lab during this time period. Journey is not responsible for any samples that do not arrive in the time frame stated above. It is the ordering parties responsibility to record any tracking information on return mailers to determine if the samples have been delivered to the lab. Journey does not record return mailer tracking numbers nor is Journey responsible for providing such tracking numbers on the clients private page or through email.
The decision on whether to re-open the case belongs to Journey, and the decision made is agreed to be final.
Case Completed or Closed
A case is considered completed and closed upon electronic posting of testing results, and the sending of an email notification the information may be viewed. Journey is not responsible for e-mail addresses that have been changed or are no longer valid to receive notification of results being completed. It is the sole responsibility of the ordering party to provide any updated information, along with proof of identify when requesting a change, as may be required at Journey’s sole discretion. Any changes must be submitted in writing through a support ticket for changes to personal information.
Results are available for thirty (30) days from the date of the results being posted, and are located in the secure client portal. All results are deleted from our system and are no longer available after that time, to ensure privacy of your information. We are unable to provide support to cases once the information is no longer in our system as we are unable to verify the information on the report.
Replacement Collection Kit
In the event that you lose or damage your Journey Collection Kit, and delivery confirmation through the USPS website verifies delivery of the kit, a replacement kit may be issued for $25.00. The ordering person will need to submit a support ticket and instructions will be provided if this option is necessary.
Processing Time
The average processing time for paternity/maternity or relationship testing is approximately 1-2 working days, depending on the test, from the date that the specimen is received by the laboratory. Y-Chromosome testing requires 5 business days once all samples have arrived. As with any biological testing, some exceptions may occur. The typical reasons for extended testing are:
The priority of the laboratory is the quality of the testing and the absolute accuracy of the results. The 1-2 business day turnaround time cannot be guaranteed if an exception is encountered, and the laboratory will not under any circumstances sacrifice the quality of the test in order to speed up the turnaround time.
Method of Payment
The following methods of payment are accepted: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Pre-paid cards with the MasterCard or Visa logo may also be used. Payment must be made in full of any outstanding charges before the results of the DNA test are released to the customer. In the event an invoice is sent for additional services requested, Journey will use the processor of their choice for payment on the invoice, including PayPal.
Service Fees and Testing Information
There will be a cost for any additional services that are needed and that are not included in the initial order. The following fees will apply in all cases when, in the sole determination of Journey, it is necessary to complete the testing ordered. All fees are prepaid and non-refundable.
Re-activating an account once it has been declared inactivate or closed: $100.00
Repackaging/Re-sending samples delivered to a non-laboratory address: $45.00
Replacement Kits (USA): $25.00 which includes domestic shipping only via USPS Priority Mail
Replacement Kits (International): $50.00 (includes shipping via USPS International Priority Mail)
Private Mailed Report (if requested): $35.00 (includes domestic USPS Priority shipping only).
Legal Mailed Report (if requested): $50.00 (includes domestic USPS Priority shipping only).
Testing any additional submitted sample after the first DNA sample, even if such sample failed to yield a DNA profile: $125.00 per sample
Testing of additional persons added to the testing, or additional testing with existing samples, per test, per report requested: $125.00
Testing bone samples (other than teeth): $575 per sample in addition to standard stated testing charges based on the testing ordered
Administrative fee for changing information on test orders, or changing the information needed by the lab to compete testing: $25.00 per 15 minute segment.
Shipping
Order processing may take between 1-3 business days, although every effort is made to process and mail testing kits the same business day, when ordered prior to 3:00 PM EST on regular business days. You can expect to receive your testing kit from 2-14 business days from the date of your order depending on the location you requested your kit to be shipped to (domestic receipt of orders is usually 2-3 business days, orders shipped outside of the U.S.A, may arrive between 6-14 business days). Orders are not processed, shipped, or delivered on weekends or holidays. We will make every effort to ship your package as quickly as possible. Journey is not responsible for any delays from the USPS or delays from any country outside the United States once the order is shipped.
Duty and Taxes: For international orders, a customs duty may be incurred (the amount of which is determined by your country of residence). This is the sole responsibility of the person ordering a DNA testing kit. Any delays due to Custom’s regulations is out of our control and not the responsibility of Journey.
Domestic orders are shipped via USPS Priority Mail. International orders are shipped USPS International Priority Mail. Please be aware that once we ship your item, it is out of our control. We are not responsible for any lost packages. Upon shipment, you will receive a confirmation email with your tracking number by the USPS. For domestic and international orders, you can track your package at USPS.com. Once your order has shipped, please directly contact USPS with any inquiries about the status of your package.
Journey is not responsible for unexpected shipping delays caused by circumstances such as severe weather or natural disasters. Similarly, we are not responsible for unexpected shipping delays caused by circumstances related to the courier itself, such as clearance delays. In cases such as these, please directly contact your courier with any inquiries about the status of your package.
In the case that USPS is unable to deliver a package due to an incorrect address entered by the customer, the customer’s refusal to pay duties, multiple failed attempts to reach the customer at point of delivery, or otherwise, Journey is not responsible for payment of return shipping costs levied by the courier. Similarly, Journey is not responsible for the payment of re-shipping the merchandise to the customer. In cases such as these, the customer is responsible for all shipping costs associated with returned packages due to failed delivery.
If an incorrect address was provided in the order form and the kit must be to be re-delivered as a result of the incorrect address provided, the cost is $25 for the replacement kit plus shipping. In the event the kit is returned as non-deliverable, and a payment for the new kit is not provided within 72 hours of notification by email to the ordering party of such a return, the returned kit will be refunded per our Refund Policy for the time and expense incurred by Journey in the preparation and expense of the kit, shipping, and administrative costs.
Journey provides a prepaid envelope in Journey testing kits to USA addresses. If the samples returned from the client to Journey are determined by the carrier providing the return to require additional shipping fees, it is the responsibility of the client to pay such postage prior to sending the samples to the lab. In the event the return carrier determines such samples were sent requiring additional shipping fees that was not paid, and Journey is required to pay such shipping fees, the cost of the additional shipping fees and an administrative fee of $25.00 will be required to be paid prior to the release of testing results.
Governing Law & Jurisdiction
The Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Oregon, United States of America. You agree to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Oregon courts.
Modifications to the Agreement and the Service
Journey reserves the right at its sole discretion to modify or discontinue any aspect of this site and the services it provides, these disclaimers, this agreement, and the terms and conditions of this agreement at any time without notice. Any changes to this agreement will be reflected in this section of the Journey. If you continue to use Journey services after a change is posted to the Terms and Conditions section of the Journey website, this means that you have accepted and are bound by the changes.
Journey Genetics, LLC Details
Our current business hours are located on our Contact page of this website. All times are based on the Pacific Standard Time Zone.
Journey Testing, LLC is registered in the State of Oregon.