Introduction To Forensic Dna Evidence For Criminal Justice Professionals (Pb 2014) Hardcover

DNA profiling has been hailed as one of the most groundbreaking techniques in forensic science since fingerprinting, but for those without a scientific background, understanding how to properly use DNA evidence can be challenging. Introduction to Forensic DNA Evidence for Criminal Justice Professionals is tailored for non-scientific readers who need to effectively use forensic DNA in criminal cases. Written by a forensic scientist renowned for her expertise in clothing analysis, the book provides a balanced perspective on the importance of DNA evidence. It goes beyond explaining the methodology and equips criminal justice professionals, including attorneys, with an understanding of the strengths and limitations of DNA evidence, including the risks of relying too heavily on DNA statistical probabilities in determining guilt. The book covers the most commonly used DNA methods in criminal trials today, such as nuclear DNA short tandem repeat (STR) techniques, mitochondrial DNA, and Y-STR profiling. It helps prosecutors decide when to emphasize DNA evidence and when to proceed without it, and guides defense attorneys on when to challenge DNA evidence, seek an independent expert, focus on other aspects of the case, or negotiate an early guilty plea. By providing both practical and theoretical insights in an accessible way, the book makes it easier for both sides in the legal system to understand how DNA evidence fits into a case.