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Principles of Forensic DNA for Officers of the Court

Expert Witness Preparation (cont.)

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

Pretrial preparation for expert testimony should review:

  • What was analyzed (including chain of custody questions).
  • Testing procedures used.
  • Reasons for inconclusive/no result.
  • Significance of results.
  • Accreditation and certification of the laboratory and personnel.
  • Laboratory's quality assurance program (include proficiency testing).
  • Qualifications and history.
  • Exhibits/Demonstrative evidence.
  • Manner in which testing results will be presented.
  • Areas likely for cross-examination.

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