NCJ Number
119985
Date Published
1988
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses how DNA fingerprinting works, identifies legal pros and cons of the procedure, and concludes that it offers a new approach to solving paternity cases, rapes, and homicides.
Abstract
DNA evidence has value as evidence because no two people -- other than identical twins -- possess the same genetic code. The individual code of the accused can be matched with blood or semen obtained as evidence. At present three commercial companies carry out DNA fingerprinting, an expensive and complicated eight-step procedure that takes approximately two and one-half weeks. DNA fingerprinting can also be used to identify parentage and to trace missing children. While DNA fingerprinting raises civil liberty issues such as privacy and the right against self incrimination, it has been admitted as evidence in the courts of 11 States. 27 footnotes.