U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

Principles of Forensic DNA for Officers of the Court

Who Will Have Access to the Results?

Home  |  Glossary  |  Resources  |  Help  |  Contact Us  |  Course Map
 

Two file folders, one says public record, one says sealed
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (see reuse policy).

The forensic laboratory, law enforcement, prosecutor, defendant, and defendant's legal representative will all have access to results of DNA analysis. A victim's access to test results may be obtained through the prosecutor's office; however, this may vary by jurisdiction.

Once evidence is introduced in court, it becomes part of the public record, unless otherwise ordered by a judge. Public records laws vary. In some jurisdictions, laboratory reports may be publicly accessible.

Back Forward