- 01 Introduction
- 02 Biology of DNA
- 03 Practical Issues Specific to DNA Evidence
- 04 Introduction to the Forensic DNA Laboratory
- 05 Assuring Quality in DNA Testing
- 06 Understanding a Forensic DNA Lab Report
- 07 Statistics and Population Genetics
- 08 Mitochondrial DNA & Y-STR Analysis
- 09 Forensic DNA Databases
- 10 Collection of DNA Evidence from Suspects and Arrestees
- 11 Pretrial DNA Evidence Issues
- 12 Victim Issues
- 13 Trial Presentation
- 14 Postconviction DNA Cases
- 15 Emerging Trends
Principles of Forensic DNA
for Officers of the Court
for Officers of the Court
Module 11 :: Pretrial Issues
Topic 5 :: Special Considerations for the Prosecution
Splitting Evidentiary Samples — Post-Charge
In some States, after a defendant has been charged, the prosecution is required to preserve evidentiary biological material for the purpose of DNA testing by the defense.
At times, the evidentiary biological material may be too minute to divide; it is good practice to consult with the laboratory on the feasibility of dividing the sample.
In States that require such, the government should inform defense counsel and seek the court's permission to consume the sample if there is no other option.
