Do I Need to Re-test the DNA samples, or Can the Same Lab DNA Data Be Used?

Short answer

Many investigators assume a second look means new DNA testing of the physical evidence. In many cases, it just means a different interpretation of the same data.

Typically, the same electronic lab DNA data can be analyzed with no DNA retesting. TrueAllele^® Casework interpretation starts with the electronic DNA data files a lab already generated. The first step is to request the files and submit them for review.

What to do next

1. Start with the most probative items first.
2. Request the required electronic DNA data files (.fsa or .hid).
3. Submit a Free TrueAllele Screening inquiry.
4. Use the screening result to decide whether a court-ready case report is needed

What to send

• Please do not send biological evidence. The screening uses the lab’s autosomal STR electronic DNA data files (.fsa or .hid).

Please submit:

• For the evidence items, the lab’s electronic data (.fsa or .hid)
• For reference profiles (victim/elimination/POI), either allele lists or electronic data files
• Allelic ladder files for any electronic data
• Lab reports or other case documents
• Item ID list (which swabs/items the files belong to)
• A case submission form with case specific information and questions (e.g., compare to POI, interpret the inconclusive mixture, compare items, etc.)

For more information on what to request from the lab, see the Sending Cases for TrueAllele Processing page.

Ready to Submit?

Tell us about your case. We’ll review it and tell you if we can get more information from the DNA data.

Free Screening

We don’t retest physical evidence items. We interpret the electronic DNA data a lab already generated.