If two or more people claim the child at the same time, priority is given to whoever can present proof. Should no proof be forthcoming, the case is referred to the qāfah (specialists who determine lineage through physical resemblance). If they attribute the child to one of the claimants, he is affiliated to that person; if they attribute him to all of them, he is affiliated to them all. Should the matter remain doubtful, his lineage is considered unknown.

One qualified qāʾif is sufficient. He is treated like a judge: his uncorroborated report is accepted, provided he is legally responsible, male, upright, free, and experienced in accurate identification.