Laboratory Time and Resources

Time Required to Conduct Post-Analysis Laboratory Activities

This phase is a set of activities that may include: report generation and reviews, requests for additional evidence or known samples, database searches, case review meetings with agencies and prosecutors and court appearance time.

The laboratory issues reports at the conclusion of analyses. Each section of the laboratory may issue a separate report on their analyses. As a result, each case may have multiple laboratory reports. The DNA analyst assigned to a case will draft a report indicating the exhibits received and analyzed, results obtained, conclusions reached, and the disposition of the evidence. The final draft must undergo a technical review by another qualified DNA analyst to ensure the conclusions reached are supported by the results. An administrative review must be conducted to ensure laboratory policies were followed. Additional reviews may also be required at the laboratory’s discretion.