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Principles of Forensic DNA for Officers of the Court

Privacy and Procedural Considerations

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National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (see reuse policy).

Victims increasingly have privacy concerns about the use of DNA evidence in cases involving samples taken from the victim or others.

  • What information about the victim or others will the test results reveal?
  • Who outside of law enforcement will have access to samples or test results?
  • The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) may limit the availability of medical records pertaining to victims. Victims should be informed if their DNA/scene evidence has been tested. 

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