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December 8, 2006

DNA: a power tool in the courtroom

As DNA technology is increasingly used as one of the most effective tools to determine family relationship and to exonerate or convict a suspect, it is crucial for legal professionals to understand and apply this technology in their practice. Recently, cold cases, even robberies, have been solved using this powerful forensic tool. What is involved with DNA determination, and, more important, how do attorneys use this information in the defense of the accused?

On Tuesday, Dec. 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. you will have the opportunity to learn all there is to know about this intriguing subject with "Forensic DNA: A Power Tool in the Courtroom." This seminar features Dr. Michael L. Baird, DNA Laboratory Director at the DNA Diagnostics Center in Cincinnati, as he discusses DNA and human identification; DNA basics made simple including the testing premises of family relationship and forensics; the forensic case process; population genetics principles; and DNA emerging technologies. Baird will also discuss how to interpret DNA reports - what are they actually saying? He will alert you to red flags in a DNA lab and how to determine accreditations and proficiencies of labs you use.

In addition, David Klucas, a criminal defense attorney from Toledo, will take you through a case dealing with the successful defense of a sexual assault client. He will advise you on getting the money you need from the court, how to get material from the state necessary to evaluate testing, when to synthesize what you've learned into an effective cross and when to punt, and how to keep DNA evidence in perspective in closing arguments.

This fascinating seminar will be useful to both those attorneys who have not yet been exposed to DNA and a useful refresher course for those of use whose exposure is sporadic. An attorney's real life experience defending a DNA forensic criminal case will be especially useful in tying the science together with practical legal insights.

Register online at www.cbalaw.org or phone 614/221.4112 for event # 3635 for 3.0 hours of CLE credit. The cost is $85 prepaid/$95 day of for members, $125 prepaid/$135 day of for non-members and $55 prepaid/$65 day of for paralegals.