- 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 13 :: Trial Presentation
Topic 1 :: Jurors and DNA Evidence
Jurors and DNA Evidence
To most jurors, DNA evidence may seem complex and confusing. Although many jurors may have heard of DNA testing and know that it can be a valuable investigatory tool, most will not be familiar with the actual technology or how scientists use it to compare evidence with known samples and arrive at identification conclusions. Qualified experts may be helpful in explaining the evidence to the jury.
Pretrial preparation with an expert is essential to ensure a familiarity with the evidence and the subject area about which the expert will testify.
