From the Inside Flap
A comprehensive study, Genetic Fingerprinting is an ideal companion for the attorney or judge. It is also an instructive guide for the novice as Judge Sheindlin, writing in a highly accessible style, includes an exciting up to date explanation of forensic DNA.
Before delving into the complexities of DNA forensic evidence, Judge Sheindlin opens with a brief overview of the law in the United States and then sets forth a probing in-depth discussion of forensic DNA, along with a basic explanation of human genetics. Providing further data, Judge Sheindlin explains the power and pitfalls of the DNA process, together with a clear discussion of the issues surrounding contamination, degradation and partial digestion.
Set forth with meticulous care is an extensive listing of every major DNA case decided by the federal and state courts. Judge Sheindlin has included factual recitation in selecting intriguing cases to illustrate, in an eye-opening review, the manner in which courts have applied or mis-applied DNA forensic evidence.
Going beyond simple explanations, he delves into the clear cut differences between the major scientific processes that measure and reveal DNA which is used to distinguish one person from another-serving to convict the guilty and exonerate the wrongly accused.
Extensive footnotes, charts, studies and noted experts' opinions provide authority for the text. For easy reference, Judge Sheindlin also includes an extensive glossary of commonly used scientific terms and technical information, as well as listings for state by state statutes and legislation dealing with DNA forensic evidence.
After reading this book, the reader will become knowledgeable in the use of DNA forensic evidence and will be capable of explaining it to others. Judge Sheindlin has demonstrated a unique ability to transfer complex subject matter and related ideas into an understandable text.
Informative, comprehensive, extensively researched and extremely well-written, Genetic Fingerprinting is the definitive book for anyone who desires to understand a DNA case.
From the Back Cover
"A thorough, concise and accessible overview of the science and law of DNA fingerprinting. Judge Sheindlin's volume will be an essential introduction and reference for judges, prosecutors and defense attorneys dealing with this most powerful of all technologies." --Dr. Eric S. Lander, Professor of Biology and Director of Whitehead Institute, MIT
