Evaluation of Testimony Topics of 2018- Preparing as an Expert Witness for DNA Testimony in Today’s Courtroom

The presenters have testified throughout the year both nationally and internationally. An evaluation of common DNA testimony topics encountered in 2018 trials by analysts will be discussed. The panel will discuss specific questions received from prosecution and defense attorneys and possible responses in expert witness testimony. The workshop will be conducted in an open forum format where attendees will be encouraged to contribute and bring forward additional testimony topics. The workshop will conclude with a question and answer session in a mock court format. Questions and topics will be accepted by attendees both before and during the workshop.

Learning Outcomes:

• Probabilistic genotyping (STRmix™ software and TrueAllele software)
• The likelihood ratio
• Phenotyping and forensic genealogy
• Secondary transfer (including the most recent publications on transfer)
• Next generation sequencing (NGS)/ Massively Parallel Sequencing (MPS)
• Responding to forensic implications from media publications/landmark court decisions
• Introducing new technology to the courtroom: Daubert, Frye, Frye-Mack, Rule 702, etc.

Intended Audience:

Forensic scientists, students, attorneys, laboratory managers, training managers