Expert assistance can be a valuable part of a criminal case, but it is important for attorneys to communicate expectations for the working relationship. We have drafted a sample expert engagement letter which outlines the basics of confidentiality, billing, scope of work, and report writing. This letter provides experts with a summary of an attorney’s …
Ways to stay informed about forensic evidence
Some attorneys have asked how they can keep up with the latest developments in forensic evidence. Along with subscribing to newsletters from this site, below is a list of websites and electronic newsletters that can help keep attorneys informed about forensic evidence issues: News Forensic Magazine – can subscribe to receive a daily email of …
DNA Evidence Essentials webinar on probabilistic genotyping
A new method for interpreting DNA mixtures will be coming online in NC in the coming months. A webinar on probabilistic genotyping will be offered on Aug. 13, 2019 from 12-2 pm to train attorneys on this new methodology. This complimentary forensic science webinar is offered by the National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology, and the …
DNA Evidence Essentials webinar on probabilistic genotypingRead More
DNA testing issue at NMS Labs
Attorneys from several counties have received notice through discovery that their cases were potentially affected by a DNA testing issue at National Medical Services (NMS) Labs in Pennsylvania. DA’s offices in various jurisdictions have sent samples to NMS Labs for DNA testing in recent years.
Online tracking system for Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kits now available
In 2018, the NC General Assembly passed legislation (S.L. 2018-70) requiring the creation of the a statewide tracking system to track the testing of Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kits (SAECKs) from collection to completion of forensic testing. The tracking system is now available for all stakeholders in the criminal justice system.
Online tracking system for Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kits now availableRead More
State Crime Lab Tour – July 26, 2019
There will be a tour of the NC State Crime Laboratory in Raleigh for defense attorneys on Friday, July 26, 2019 at 11 am. State Crime Lab staff will take attorneys and defense investigators to several sections of the lab and provide information about the techniques used by lab analysts. This is an excellent opportunity …
Amicus Lab post on Duke Law Forensics Forum
Staying informed on forensic issues
The new Forensic Resources website now offers email newsletters that will allow you to stay up-to-date on upcoming forensic trainings, blog posts, news articles, and specific forensic disciplines of interest to you. To subscribe, simply enter your name and areas of interest here. You’ll get notified when we post new content on the website and …
DNA Mixtures: A Forensic Science Explainer
NIST has created a primer on interpretation of DNA mixtures that explains what are DNA mixtures and why are they sometimes so difficult to interpret.
Can law enforcement compel a subject to unlock a device?
The NACDL Fourth Amendment Center has authored a Compelled Decryption Primer to help attorneys litigate the issue of whether law enforcement can compel a suspect to unlock or decrypt a device. The Fourth Amendment requires law enforcement to get a warrant to search a cell phone, even incident to arrest. Riley v. California, 573 U.S. …
Can law enforcement compel a subject to unlock a device?Read More
DNA Webinar Series: Probabilistic Genotyping of Evidentiary DNA Typing Results
The FBI Laboratory and the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Technology Center of Excellence are offering a series of free online workshops to increase knowledge, understanding, and the reliable application of probabilistic genotyping to DNA evidence. As crime labs begin adopting methods that incorporate probabilistic genotyping results, attorneys need to understand the methods, capabilities, and …
DNA Webinar Series: Probabilistic Genotyping of Evidentiary DNA Typing ResultsRead More
Litigating Post-Conviction Innocence Claims CLE
10th Annual Post-Conviction ConferenceLitigating Post-Conviction Innocence Claims The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), in collaboration with the Innocence Network, and supported by a grant awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, presents this essential training specifically for lawyers who handle post-conviction innocence claims. National experts will provide cutting edge instruction on topics essential for re-investigating and …