Forensic genetics is the study of how information about inherited tendencies can be used to provide evidence in legal cases. Evidence presented in both criminal and civil cases can be included. For many years, genetics has been used in forensic science to aid law enforcement personnel.
Prior to the availability of DNA identification, laboratory technicians working with police departments could analyze blood samples taken from a crime scene to determine the perpetrator’s blood type. This information was useful when attempting to eliminate certain individuals from a suspect list after a crime had occurred.
Hair samples from a suspect could also be examined under a microscope by trained laboratory technicians to see if they were similar to hairs found at a crime scene. Because the technology couldn’t tell if two samples were an exact match, defense attorneys would bring this up in court to raise reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury.
The field of forensic genetics has changed now that DNA can be used to create genetic profiles from a sample of blood or saliva. Evidence collected at a crime scene can be analyzed to create a suspect profile. Once the profile has been obtained, it can be compared to other DNA profiles that law enforcement officers have access to. It is critical to identify a specific person at a crime scene in order to ensure that the perpetrator is brought to justice. In addition, DNA profiling in law enforcement reduces the chances of a wrongful conviction.
Human remains are also identified using this technology. It can be used in both crime scenes and disaster areas. Forensic genetics can be used to compare samples recovered from the scene to the DNA of known relatives when victims need to be identified. After a traumatic event, being able to accurately identify those who have died can provide some closure to families.
Paternity determination is another application of forensic genetics. In some cases involving a child support claim, proving a biological relationship is required before a financial support order can be signed. A paternity test that determines whether or not a man is the father of a child is 99 percent accurate. If the results show that he is not the father, the chances of paternity are almost non-existent.