Forensic DNA Experts

Bericon’s forensic DNA experts in Staffordshire, UK, provide nationwide services.

They review key aspects of DNA cases:

1. Proper procedures and basis for conclusions
2. DNA sample quality and quantity, including transfer possibilities
3. Potential contribution from close relatives
4. Complexity of DNA test results and its impact on conclusions
5. Effects of uncertain contributor numbers on result reliability

Bericon uses UKAS-accredited facilities for additional testing. Their DNA experts present complex evidence clearly in court, offering objective testimony in criminal and civil cases. DNA profiling can link suspects to crime scenes, but profiles vary in evidential value.

Experienced scientists must critically evaluate DNA evidence, especially for mixed profiles or those obtained using sensitive techniques like Low Copy Number analysis, which may require subjective interpretation.

Call Now to Talk To Our Forensic Expert Team

Why Choose Bericon’s Forensic DNA Experts

1. 42 Years of Experience: Trusted in forensic science, serving law firms and defence solicitors.
2. Comprehensive Services: Tailored forensic solutions to meet legal needs.
3. Same-Day Quotes: Quick responses to ensure timely information.
4. High-Quality Standards: Thorough checks on all work before court presentation.
5. Professional Affiliations: Members of leading organisations, ensuring credibility.
6. Cost-Effective Solutions: Services designed to fit budget constraints.
7. Expert Testimony: Clear explanations of complex evidence in court.
8. Accredited Labs: Reliable DNA analysis from UKAS-accredited facilities.

Choosing Bericon Forensics means expert support for your case. Contact us today for a response within the hour.

Importance of Forensic Expert Witnesses in Legal Proceedings

DNA evidence has become the “new gold standard” in forensic science, playing a critical role in the criminal justice system:

1. Identification: DNA evidence can definitively link suspects to crime scenes or exonerate the wrongfully accused.
2. Cold Case Resolution: Our forensic DNA experts have successfully analysed evidence from decades-old cases, providing new leads and solving long-standing mysteries.
3. Strengthening Defence Arguments: In cases where the accused maintains their innocence, our DNA analysis can provide definitive proof of non-involvement in the crime.
4. Objective Scientific Testimony: Our experts present complex DNA evidence in clear, understandable terms to judges and juries, ensuring fair and informed legal proceedings.

Get A Free Quote Within 24 Hours

Our Forensic Expert Witness Services

DNA Profiles

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid):

• A chemical in cells carrying genetic information
• Inherited from both parents
• Identical in all cells of an individual

STR (Short Tandem Repeat) Profiling:

• Focuses on specific DNA regions (loci) that vary between individuals
• Examines areas with repeating sequences (STRs)
• The number of repeating units differs between individuals

DNA Profile Comparison:

• Different profiles indicate different individuals
• Matching profiles could be from the same person or someone with an identical STR profile

STR Profile Components:

• Represented by a series of peaks
• Each locus usually shows two peaks (one from each parent)
• A single peak appears when both parents pass on the same allele

Forensic DNA Analysis:

• Experts compare peak arrangements to match known profiles with crime samples
• Matching profiles are evaluated using match probability
• Match probability estimates the chance of a random person having the same profile

Genetic Relationships:

• Closely related individuals are more likely to share similar DNA profiles
• Distant relatives have less probability of matching profiles

Mixed DNA Profiles

Mixed DNA profiles occur when a sample contains genetic material from multiple individuals. This complexity can reduce the information's usefulness in identifying specific contributors. Key points about mixed DNA profiles include:

1. Reduced match probabilities compared to single-source profiles
2. Possible identification of major and minor contributors based on DNA quantity
3. Challenges in statistical evaluation when contributors have roughly equal DNA quantities
4. Increased complexity with three or more contributors
5. Potential for incomplete results due to low DNA levels

In cases of very low DNA levels, forensic scientists must consider the possibility of missing components from multiple contributors, further complicating analysis and interpretation.

Get A Free Quote Within 24 Hours

Partial DNA Profiles

• The SGM Plus DNA analysis system targets ten loci, each containing two alleles, known as “short tandem repeats,” which vary among individuals.
• An additional locus is included in the analysis to indicate the sex of the DNA donor.
• A “full” DNA profile is achieved when all loci produce reliable and reportable results.
• Sometimes, some loci fail to produce results, leading to an incomplete or “partial” DNA profile.
• Common causes of partial profiles include:
  • A very small amount of DNA is present in the sample,
  • DNA degradation, or
  • Inhibiting substances present in the sample that affect the analysis process.

• Partial DNA profiles may result in reduced match probabilities, sometimes below the 1 in 1 billion probability calculated from a full profile.

Low Copy Number DNA Analysis

Low Copy Number (LCN) DNA analysis is a highly sensitive modification of the standard SGM Plus method. While it can detect trace amounts of DNA, LCN analysis is prone to cross-contamination and amplification effects, requiring cautious interpretation. Following a 2007 court case that raised concerns about its reliability, LCN analysis underwent review. The technique remains in use with enhanced safeguards and protocols.