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Principles of Forensic DNA for Officers of the Court

Functions of the Defense Expert

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An expert for the defense can serve multiple functions:

  • Analyze and interpret the prosecution's laboratory report and data.
  • Identify possible errors or omissions committed by the prosecution's testing laboratory or in evidence handling prior to the laboratory testing.
  • Observe analysis when appropriate (e.g. limited sample cases).
  • Evaluate the need for or conduct independent tests on the biological material.
  • Offer testimony at trial to address the accuracy or significance of the DNA evidence.

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