DNA Evidence in Criminal Proceedings - Principles & Practice

Introduction

DNA evidence now plays a central role in criminal trials, but is it always as definitive as it appears?

This webinar examines the growing influence of expert and DNA evidence in criminal proceedings. Whether you practise as a defence advocate or a prosecutor, you have almost certainly encountered DNA evidence in your cases and experienced its powerful impact in the courtroom.

From the fundamentals of expert testimony to the subtle limitations inherent in forensic science, this webinar will strengthen your grasp of both the core principles and the more complex dimensions of DNA evidence. You will develop practical skills to critically evaluate, interpret, and effectively challenge DNA evidence in your cases.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• An introduction to the use of expert evidence in criminal proceedings, and an overview of what constitutes expert evidence and the formalities of its introduction
• How the criminal procedure rules apply to the use of expert evidence, particularly in respect of the introduction of DNA evidence
• What is DNA?
• How can DNA evidence be deployed in criminal proceedings? What are the issues in which DNA can be utilised, and how is this presented in SFRs?
• What do the statistics in DNA evidence actually mean?
• What are the limitations of DNA evidence and how can it be challenged?

This pre-recorded webinar will be available to view from Friday 3rd July 2026

Alternatively, you can gain access to this webinar and 2,300+ others via the MBL Webinar Subscription. Please email webinarsubscription@mblseminars.com for more details.