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DNA - A Prosecutor’s Practice Notebook Inventory

Cross-Examination

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Introduction to Cross-Examination

Few prosecutors have the scientific skills to challenge a defense DNA expert on the science of DNA. However, cross-examination of the defense expert involves the same skills that prosecutors use daily in their examination of any type of defense expert. Successful cross-examination consists of:

  • Careful preparation with the state's DNA analyst;
  • Drawing concessions from the defense DNA expert witness; and
  • Attacking the defense DNA expert witness on the areas of expertise and bias.

In this topic you will learn about conducting successful cross-examinations.

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