Fenomen identyfikacji genetycznej
The phenomenon of genetic identification

Summary/Abstract: DNA identification, which counts a few decades only, has revolutionized forensic science. Over a short period of time, genetic identification has become the most effective method of human identification, even when a tiny amount of biological material is available. Its dynamic development has allowed shifting efforts from group to individual identification. DNA analysis is broadly used for identification of criminal offenders, and due to computer-based DNA data bases – also allows detection of offenders internationally. The technique is fundamental in identification of disaster victims and also historically – in identification of bone remains. Furthermore, it is very useful in verification of wrongful convictions. In civil litigation, DNA analysis is irreplaceable in cases involving paternity testing. Genetic identification has quite solid scientific foundations and therefore, it has dethroned fingerprint identification, being earlier recognized as the “golden” standard of human identification. What is more, DNA analysis triggered the wave of criticism towards the majority of forensic methods of identification, which are considered to be characteristic by a high level of subjectivity, and which started the process of scientific development of these methods.

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