Oldfield Consultancy have been asked to provide a full expert statement on DNA profiles for a high profile legal case. This statement, in conjunction with a DNA specialist, covers likelihoods and applicability to the legal case. A particular request was to ensure the defendant could undertsand the output and explanation for their day in court.
One overlooked element of an expert is their ability to explain to the lay person what is happening in the analysis. After all, what is the point in producing reams of analysis if no one understands what it means. An expert is able to provide robust input form the start of a project to ensure data is collected correctly for the analysis plan. The resulting report should always fully explain the findings with caveats and assumptions. There is no replacement for good practise and expert testimony when an individuals freedom is riding on it.
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