- 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 14 :: Postconviction
Topic 3 :: Legal / Procedural Issues
Locating Evidence (cont.)
Responsibility for the preservation and maintenance of physical evidence varies according to jurisdiction. The court can play a significant role in the search for evidence via court order or subpoena directing custodial agencies to search for physical evidence.
If evidence has been destroyed or cannot be located, this should be confirmed in writing by the appropriate authority. In many cases, while the original item of evidence may have been destroyed, extracts, glass slides, or cuttings may still be available for testing.
