DNA profiling allows the determination of the alleles of multiple loci on an individual's genome. The frequencies of these alleles are then estimated from a sample drawn from the population. If the occurrences of alleles at different loci are independent, the frequencies may be multiplied together to give an estimate of the probably that the DNA from a randomly chosen member of the population matches the DNA of the individual in question. However, doubt exists regarding whether the assumption of independence can be justified. However, a method is available that does not require the assumption of independence. In addition, a suitable set of criteria are derived that offer an objective approach to the determination of a match from two DNA samples. Tables and 7 references (Author abstract modified)