For a criminal defendant, a DNA-evidence case involves issues of science, proof, the right to expert assistance, and the potential for having to submit to testing. Upon conviction (or as a result of a guilty plea), he or she may be obliged to submit DNA samples to a data bank. Each of these issues warrants a detailed explanation. Informing the accused of his or her rights can facilitate a proper resolution of a case and ensure that the attorney-client relationship is secure.

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