NCJ Number
127665
Date Published
1990
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Although DNA fingerprinting has been declared the most important development in scientific evidence in this century, the evidence it fosters is open to challenge and lawyers may be able to use parts of the testing procedures to their client's advantage.
Abstract
By identifying biological samples through analysis of the DNA material contained in the cells, this technique can match tissue samples taken at the crime scene with those taken from a suspect. DNA fingerprinting can also be used to establish parentage with near certainty. Its advantage over traditional blood typing is its precision and the small quantity of sample needed to perform the analysis. Several recent cases in the US have subjected DNA fingerprinting to legal concerns regarding its acceptance within the scientific community, the possibility of sample degradation, and the reliability and validity of test results. This article describes the makeup of DNA and the procedures of DNA matching in detail. Some of the difficulties in the test which provide complexities for the lawyer and difficulties for the scientist include quality of the sample, matching the bands on the gel, population genetics, and linkage between genetic traits. 7 figures