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DNA Handbook, 2nd Edition
DNA Handbook, 2nd Edition gives lawyers the scientific foundation they need to effectively represent clients, communicate knowledgeably with forensic scientists, and handle DNA evidence according to the evidence law.
Publication Language: English
Published: November 30, 2008
Publisher: LexisNexis Canada
How Do You Deal With DNA Evidence?
DNA evidence is now commonplace in criminal trials, due to rapid advances in sophisticated analysis technology. These developments also mean that DNA has tremendous value in quasi-criminal and civil matters, such as clarifying family relationships and identifying senders of private or confidential communications. Regardless of the scenario, DNA evidence is highly legislated and subject to rigorous procedures and standards.
DNA Handbook, 2nd Edition gives lawyers the scientific foundation they need to effectively represent clients, communicate knowledgeably with forensic scientists, and handle DNA evidence according to the evidence law. Topics include:
- What DNA is, how forensic DNA profiles are produced, and how they are interpreted
- Enhancements in DNA and RNA technology since publication of the first edition in 2002
- Legal framework for collecting and preserving DNA samples, trial practice and post-conviction issues, and non-criminal uses of forensic DNA
- Changes to Canada's criminal legislation - introduced January 1, 2008 - that significantly impact the collection of DNA evidence and inclusion of DNA profiles in the Canadian National DNA Data Bank
The authors include a forensic biologist, a Crown Counsel, and a director in a leading laboratory that provides forensic DNA testing services - covering all areas of DNA expertise.
Discover How To:
- Present DNA evidence in the courtroom
- Question and cross-examine expert witnesses on all critical areas
- Identify and review relevant sections of a disclosure document
- Interpret a reporting officer's conclusions
- Assess the reliability of DNA evidence, taking into consideration error, "error rates" and other possible forms of interference
- Make use of the Canadian National DNA Data Bank under the new legislation
Features
- Numerous diagrams illustrating technical aspects of DNA typing
- Lawyer and police forms for seeking a National DNA Data Bank order, collecting DNA samples, and other critical procedures
- Journal and internet resources for further research
- Glossary of key forensic DNA terms
- Checklist for executing a DNA warrant
Who Should Buy This Book?
- Criminal lawyers and Crown Counsel who need to identify strengths and weaknesses of forensic DNA and expert testimony
- Civil law practitioners and police who can now use forensic DNA testing in accident reconstruction, personal privacy issues, hospital queries, and other corporate cases
- Family and immigration lawyers who must verify family relationships in custody and support situations and where family members face potential immigration problems
- Police who must follow correct procedures for collecting and submitting DNA samples or risk negating its value as evidence
Table of Figures
Table of Cases
Introduction
Chapter 1: An Introduction to DNA and Forensic DNA Analysis
Chapter 2: Producing a DNA Profile
Chapter 3: Assessing the Significance of a DNA Profile Match
Chapter 4: Paternity Analysis
Chapter 5: Method Validation and STR Casework Examples
Chapter 6: Collecting and Preserving Samples for Forensic DNA Analysis
Chapter 7: DNA Evidence in the Courtroom
Chapter 8: Post-Conviction Issues
Chapter 9: DNA Data Banks and the National DNA Data Bank of Canada
Chapter 10: Forensic DNA, Private Laboratories, and Civil Issues
Appendices
