Are there any probable defence challenges to DNA profiling?
Top Yes, the investigating officers and prosecutors using DNA profiling should be aware of several areas where the defence could challenge evidence successfully. The main points that could be raised are: • possible contamination of samples which could lead to a different interpretation of results or their invalidation; • comparison with an inadequate population sample size as the basis for the probability calculations; • improper sample handling or the unreliability of laboratory procedures.
Yes, the investigating officers and prosecutors using DNA profiling should be aware of several areas where the defence could challenge evidence successfully. The main points that could be raised are: • possible contamination of samples which could lead to a different interpretation of results or their invalidation; • comparison with an inadequate population sample size as the basis for the probability calculations; • improper sample handling or the unreliability of laboratory procedures.
