A preliminary review can be a useful step in assessing the broad strengths and weaknesses of a particular matter. This process can also identify documentary and any further evidence requirements.
Rigorous interrogation of the evidence will uncover underlying strengths and determine the most appropriate pathway towards reviewing and reporting the matter.
Certain complex matters benefit from a draft report, which can open areas for discussion with Counsel, and potentially allow for defence to approach the prosecution.
Following a thorough evaluation of the evidence, a DNA expert report will be issued in accordance with the expert witness code of conduct. The report will be suitable for submission in evidence.
Preparations with Counsel are often conducted, such that the probative value of the evidence is weighed effectively and persuasively at Voir Dire, should such a hearing be required.
Extensive preparations are generally conducted in anticipation of substantive hearing. Which may include cross examination and evidence in chief concepts specific to the matter.
Expertise
Our forensic expert witness opinion, is proffered in the disciplines of DNA analysis, bloodstain pattern analysis, biological fluids and STRmix.
With extensive crime scene and laboratory experience, we have cultivated a substantial underpinning of knowledge which is of critical utility when interpreting and reviewing scientific evidence within our niche fields of expertise.
Our senior forensic biologist has applied expertise persuasively to a wide range of serious criminal matters including murder, manslaughter, sexual assaults, drugs importation, drugs manufacture to name a few. We deliver well refined expert witness testimony, that fundamentally incorporates an identifiable ability to clarify and present the evidence, such that it is readily understood by the court.
Our forensic expert witness opinion, is proffered in the disciplines of DNA analysis, bloodstain pattern analysis, biological fluids and STRmix.
With extensive crime scene and laboratory experience, we have cultivated a substantial underpinning of knowledge which is of critical utility when interpreting and reviewing scientific evidence within our niche fields of expertise.
Our senior forensic biologist has applied expertise persuasively to a wide range of serious criminal matters including murder, manslaughter, sexual assaults, drugs importation, drugs manufacture to name a few. We deliver well refined expert witness testimony, that fundamentally incorporates an identifiable ability to clarify and present the evidence, such that it is readily understood by the court.
Preliminary review
The strength and weakness of the forensic evidence, is of critical importance at the outset of a matter. At these early stages, an understanding of the defendant’s position, within context, would commonly be of much utility.
DNA evidence is inherently complex, particularly when mixed profiles are involved, and complex prosecution hypothesis seek to rely critically upon the evidence in an effort to prove multiple steps of an allegation.
A preliminary review process seeks to broadly review the available evidence from a first blush perspective. This may include an EFIMS/intelligence report issued by ODPP, Forensic biology case file, crown case statement, and instructions may also be provided if available at that point.
Evidentiary review
A thorough review of the evidence provides a critical underpinning of the matter, and facilitates counsel with a clear understanding as to the robustness of the scientific evidence in context of the prosecution and defence hypothesis. Instructions are generally received and the full file is reviewed.
This review process will elicit the suite of information and efforts required in order to report the matter in an expert report.
An evidentiary review is a substantial undertaking, which typically encompasses a large proportion of the work which contributes towards the ultimate outcome of formulating thoroughly considered and well-formed expert opinion.
DRAFT REPORT
In preparation for the expert report, a draft report may be issued, depending in part upon the complexity of the matter. This process may be of particular utility in circumstance whereby dialogue between prosecution and defence has opened up, or when counsel has determined that the expert report will not be served for strategic reasons.
EXPERT REPORT
Our highly probative expert evidence is thorough in substance, and methodically prepared. Experience has shown that an authoritative expert report is conveyed in simple unadorned terms, making for robust and persuasive evidence.
Every effort is made to detangle and clarify the scientific intricacies within the evidence, such that it is readily and reliably understood by the court and juries alike.
Professional Memberships
University of Technology Sydney Fellow
VOIR DIRE
The prejudicial weight of DNA evidence purporting to support guilt, places much emphasis on the rigor of preparations for such a hearing.
We are regularly instructed to provide extensive evidence that is led to assist the court, when it determines the probative value of the DNA evidence.
This process generally incorporates a close exchange of communication with counsel, to ensure that the DNA expert evidence is fully considered, as it relates to the propositions, and the broader evidence. Counsel regularly utilises this opportunity to further test the strength of the matter, given the plethora of variations that may occur, should the matter ultimately proceed to substantive hearing.
HEARING
Extensive preparations are generally conducted in anticipation of substantive hearing.
These preparations may include the review of prior hearing transcripts to assist counsel with formulation of matter specific cross examination questions, with consideration given to possible obfuscations and refutations of the witness in response.
Close consideration will be given to strategising the presentation of the scientific evidence to the greatest extent possible, such that it is simple, assertive, and without unnecessary complication.
