- 01 Introduction
- 02 Biology of DNA
- 03 Practical Issues Specific to DNA Evidence
- 04 Forensic DNA Laboratory
- 05 Assuring Quality in DNA Testing
- 06 Understanding a Forensic DNA Lab Report
- 07 Statistics and Population Genetics
- 08 Mitochondrial DNA & Y-STR Analysis
- 09 Forensic DNA Databases
- 10 Collection of DNA Evidence
- 11 Pretrial DNA Evidence Issues
- 12 Victim Issues
- 13 Trial Presentation
- 14 Postconviction DNA Cases
- 15 Emerging Trends
Principles of Forensic DNA
for Officers of the Court
for Officers of the Court
Module 14 :: Postconviction
Topic 3 :: Legal / Procedural Issues
Victim/Survivor Considerations
In some jurisdictions, the law requires notice to the victim of his or her right to be present and heard at postconviction proceedings. It is important to consult with the local victim/witness specialist to determine whether and when to advise the victim or survivors of the request for DNA testing. It is always preferable to have victims or survivors learn of the request from a trained professional rather than the news media. In appropriate circumstances, the court might consider whether a "no contact with the press" order should be issued to protect the interests of the victim and/or survivors.
