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Principles of Forensic DNA for Officers of the Court

Cross-Examination

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Although most forensic DNA testing methods have been accepted by courts in all 50 States, challenges are still made, for example, in areas such as the education, training, and experience of a particular analyst. It also might be explored whether the analyst might be biased in some way; whether all relevant testing precautions were taken on quality assurance procedures followed; and the level of certainty of the results. 2

Cross-examination may also elicit the limits of DNA evidence in that case. For example, DNA analysis cannot determine when or how the biological material was deposited at a particular location.

Reviewing transcripts of prior testimony of specific experts may be helpful.

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