Forensic evidence plays a critical role in murder investigations by police and serves as a pivotal tool for both the prosecution and the defense. Specific procedural regulations must be followed for evidence to be admissible in an Indiana criminal case.
This evidence becomes a central element in constructing a murder defense in Indiana. This article examines different types of forensic evidence and how an Evansville, IN defense lawyer builds a case.
Verdelski Miller has over 30 years of experience and has defended clients accused of the most serious crimes. Don’t wait to contact our law firm for experienced and aggressive representation.
DNA Evidence
Forensic evidence draws upon a diverse range of scientific methods. DNA analysis, with its exceptional accuracy in linking individuals to a crime scene, occupies a prominent role within this field. The Indiana Rules of Evidence (IC 45-12-1-1 to -11) outlines the admissibility and weight of DNA evidence.
DNA has a lot of power to sway juries. However, a skilled defense attorney can challenge the chain of custody, raise concerns about contamination, or even request independent testing of the prosecution’s DNA evidence.
Fingerprint Evidence
While depictions of fingerprint analysis in popular media may present it as a definitive and straightforward process, the reality is far more intricate. In Indiana, legal proceedings involving fingerprint evidence adhere to the Daubert standard, demanding rigorous examination of both the scientific basis of the technique and the qualifications of the analyzing expert.
A defense attorney can challenge the quality of the prints (IC 45-14-3-2), raise questions about smudging or transfer, and even introduce expert witnesses to offer a counterpoint to the prosecution’s fingerprint narrative.
Ballistics Analysis
Ballistic analysis, a vital branch of forensic science, meticulously examines firearms and ammunition to reconstruct the events surrounding a discharge. This analysis provides crucial evidence of the projectile’s trajectory and caliber.
Indiana recognizes the significance of ballistics evidence in IC 35-47-1-1, but the defense can challenge the accuracy of testing and the chain of custody or even introduce alternative explanations for the ballistics narrative.
Trace Evidence
Trace evidence serves as a crucial element in reconstructing the intricate narrative of a crime scene. Hair, fibers, pollen, and other minute particles can be analyzed using Indiana’s protocols (IC 35-33-1-10).
The defense can challenge the transfer of such evidence, question the collection and handling procedures (IC 45-14-3-2), or even propose alternative explanations for their presence on the defendant.
Building a Murder Defense Case
The effective use of forensic evidence in a murder defense strategy demands a rigorous and methodical approach. An Evansville defense attorney may call on forensic experts and other specialists to analyze the evidence and serve as expert witnesses.
Expert witnesses explain specialized topics to the jury, helping them understand the facts and how they relate to the case in question.
Your defense lawyer will work to identify and attack any vulnerabilities in the prosecution’s case. This includes challenging the admissibility of evidence.
What Evidence Is Admissible?
In a murder case, there are specific rules about what evidence can be presented in court, and it needs to meet certain criteria to be considered admissible. Here are some simple explanations of these rules.
- Relevance: Evidence must be directly related to the murder case. If it doesn’t help prove or disprove something important, it may not be allowed.
- Reliability: The evidence should be trustworthy and dependable. If there are doubts about its accuracy, it might not be admitted.
- Hearsay: Usually, statements made by someone who isn’t testifying in court are considered hearsay and may not be allowed. There are exceptions to the hearsay rule.
- Authentication: The prosecution needs to prove that the evidence is what it claims to be. For example, if it’s a document or a photograph, there must be a way to confirm its authenticity.
- Exclusionary Rule: If evidence was collected illegally or in violation of the defendant’s rights, it may be excluded.
- Character Evidence: Generally, a person’s character or past behavior isn’t admissible to prove they committed a crime, though there are exceptions.
Contact an Experienced Defense Lawyer in Indiana
If you or a loved one is charged with a serious crime, you need a dedicated and aggressive Evansville defense lawyer in your corner. With over 30 years of handling criminal cases and more than 85 jury trials behind him, Verdelski Miller is unmatched in expertise.
Contact Verdelski Miller at 812-425-9170 for a free case evaluation.
