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Funds for Defense DNA Experts Required

NCJ Number
161329
Journal
Advocate Volume: 18 Issue: 2 Dated: (March 1996) Pages: 40-45
Author(s)
E C Monahan
Date Published
1996
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Funds for expert assistance to defense counsel in the area of DNA evidence are needed in light of the substantial new funding available statewide under 1994 amendments to legislation in Kentucky and since courts in many other States agree that defendants are entitled to their own DNA experts.
Abstract
Because research indicates controversy surrounding DNA methodologies, defense counsel should have access to adequate expert assistance to review the quality of DNA laboratory work and the interpretation of results. When the prosecutor proposes to use DNA typing evidence or when such evidence has been used in case investigation, an expert should routinely be available to the defendant. Court cases are cited to demonstrate the uniformity of thinking on the need to provide adequate funding for DNA experts. The author concludes that cases involving DNA in which identity is a contested issue require funds for defense experts who can consult, test, and testify to ensure that courts and factfinders have both sides of the controversial, complex, and confusing scientific process. 2 tables

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