This session was recorded on 13 May 2026 as part of the Spotlight on contaminated DNA evidence - live webinar.

The Spotlight on Law series brings you insights from experts on current issues in law and practice. In this session, a DNA expert offers a practical insight into contamination and transfer in forensic casework: how they occur, where they arise in the evidence lifecycle, and when they are capable of explaining DNA results.

DNA evidence is frequently described as the gold standard of forensic science, but this depends on the integrity of the processes that produce it. DNA contamination and transfer are often minimised, despite their capacity to materially affect the probative value of forensic findings.  Using case examples, including recent judicial consideration in WA v Piccioni on investigator-mediated transfer, the presentation will assist lawyers to identify genuine issues, distinguish them from speculation, and understand how these issues intersect with admissibility and evidentiary weight.

Please note this session will only be available until 13 May 2027.