DNA on Trial
What Judges and Lawyers Need to Know
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Austin, Texas, USA
Grant Staff: +1.972.244.3415
Registrar: +1.972.244.3404
E-Mail: mhooper@cailaw.org
Overview
DNA evidence has become one of the most powerful tools in modern criminal practice, but it also presents complex scientific, legal, and ethical challenges. This course, taking place from August 12-14, 2026, in Austin, TX, equips attorneys and judges with the knowledge to confidently evaluate DNA in the courtroom, from the collection of evidence at the crime scene to interpretation, statistics, testimony, and post-conviction issues.
This course is funded by a grant from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.
Schedule and Faculty
Program Chair
Lynn Robitaille Garcia
General Counsel
Texas Forensic Science Commission
We are privileged to have Lynn Robitaille Garcia, General Counsel of the Texas Forensic Science Commission, chairing DNA on Trial. A nationally recognized expert in forensic standards and policy, Ms. Garcia’s leadership ensures this program provides both scientific clarity and practical legal insight for attorneys and judges working with DNA evidence.
Topics will include:
- Forensic DNA Fundamentals – Understand collection, laboratory processes, and common pitfalls in handling biological evidence.
- Interpreting DNA Results – Gain insight into mixtures, stochastic effects, and the critical role of assumptions in analysis.
- Statistics & Software – Learn how random match probability, likelihood ratios, and probabilistic genotyping programs like STRmix are used—and sometimes misused.
- DNA in the Courtroom – Explore best practices for presenting and challenging expert testimony, addressing ethical obligations, and handling disclosure requirements.
- Post-Conviction & Emerging Issues – Examine Chapter 64 filings, habeas litigation, and new frontiers such as forensic genealogy.
Day One, August 12 (3.75 hrs. CLE)
Preparing for a Trial that Has DNA Evidence: What You Need to Know
12:00 p.m. - Registration and Logistics: Capitol Auditorium Foyer
12:30 p.m. - Welcome & Program Roadmap
- Lynn Garcia (Texas Forensic Science Commission, General Counsel)
12:45 p.m. - Introduction to Forensic Biology & Case Assessment
Faculty will introduce the types of testing a laboratory may use in a forensic biology case against the backdrop of typical questions asked during an investigation. DNA analysts must understand incoming requests for analysis and background case information sufficiently to formulate efficient testing plans given limited resources, while minimizing access to task-irrelevant information. We will introduce the importance of understanding what the DNA reporting results may or may not mean within the entirety of the case. Attendees will be introduced to key limitations of biological/DNA interpretations and the rationale behind current case acceptance policies at DPS. Finally, faculty will emphasize how effective communication between investigators, legal practitioners, and laboratories positively impacts the speed and utility of the testing performed.
- Brady Mills (TXDPS Deputy Asst. Director), Jarrah Kennedy (Texas Forensic Science Commission, Scientific Program Coordinator)
1:30 p.m. - Forensic Biology Screening
In this session, attendees will learn about common test methods used to characterize biological material to help answer questions like “is there blood on this swab?” or “is there semen on the underwear?” Faculty will review examples of laboratory notes and reporting statements to explain what they mean. We will also provide a current snapshot of what biological screening methods Texas accredited labs are performing and how often. The attendees should take away an improved understanding of the value of these tests to help them decide whether the tests would be helpful in their practice.
- Stacy McDonald (Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences, Deputy Chief of Physical Evidence), Gary McDonald (Dallas Co. DAO)
2:15 p.m. - Break
2:30 p.m. - DNA Laboratory Processing
Faculty will briefly explain what occurs at each of the steps that ultimately lead to generation of a DNA profile: extraction, quantitation, amplification, and detection. Attendees will learn to review this laboratory documentation for important information related to who performed the tests, what quality controls were used, and if any issues were documented during the processing of the items like contamination, sample switches, failed controls, etc.
- Samantha Wandzek (Signature Science)
3:15 p.m. - Introduction to DNA Interpretation, Reporting, and CODIS
This session will give a high-level overview of DNA interpretation to delve into the key takeaways for attendees related to profile interpretation, assignment of number of contributors, mixture interpretation and the statistics used to give weight to DNA comparisons. Examples of DNA reports from Texas accredited laboratories will be used to illustrate similarities/differences and how to locate the information needed during trial preparation. The national DNA database (CODIS) will be discussed as it relates to eligibility requirements and what follow-ups are necessary once a “hit” occurs. The session will include discussion about potential red flags such as mixtures, the impact of related individuals, and the DNA language—words or numbers—means in a report.
- Tiffany Larsen (Brazos Co DA), Charity Hubbard (Texas DPS)
4:00 p.m. - Break
4:15 p.m. - Question and Answer Session: Full Panel of Instructors
4:30 p.m. - Key Takeaways & Preview for Tomorrow
Faculty will highlight key takeaways and emphasize the importance of getting full (and timely) discovery. Just as important as discovery is pre-trial preparation with the DNA scientist(s) in the case so that common issues can be addressed and understood by all parties. Finally, the attendees will hear a preview of the remainder of the program where the issues introduced today will be illustrated through real case facts.
- Lynn Garcia & Jarrah Kennedy (TFSC)
5:00 p.m. - Adjourn
Day Two: August 13 (5.5 hrs. CLE)
The Power and Limitations of Forensic DNA Evidence
9:00 a.m. - Welcome: Preview of the Day and Roadmap of Materials
9:15 a.m. - Introduce Travis Cobb Case
During this session, faculty will understand the critical lessons that emerged from Mr. Cobb’s wrongful conviction and the work done by the Bexar County DA’s Office, law enforcement and his attorney in pursuit of his exoneration.
- Matt Howard (Bexar Co. DA), Dayna Jones (Defense), and exoneree Travis Cobb
10:15 a.m. - Break
10:30 a.m. - What Questions Do DNA Reports Help Answer?
Faculty will remind the audience of the limitations of DNA interpretations that help to address the “who” questions in a case. To explore what the DNA results mean in the wider context of the case, additional information needs to be considered. There are various scientific issues to consider, such as the type of biological material present, the recovery of DNA under different circumstances, and the other case facts that help the trier of fact properly understand the meaning of the DNA profiling results.
- Dawn Boswell (UNT CHI), Jarrah Kennedy (TFSC)
11:00 a.m. - DNA Transfer: Counterarguments in Travis Cobb’s Exoneration
Faculty will discuss the DNA transfer explanation(s) offered by the real perpetrator in the Travis Cobb case and why the prosecutors ultimately rejected the explanations in the context of all case facts. Key takeaway— the factfinder and legal professionals should investigate what the DNA findings mean when considered along with other case information (e.g., other forensic evidence, lay witnesses, etc.).
- Matt Howard (Bexar Co. DA)
11:30 a.m. - PBS Video “You've Been Lied to About DNA Evidence”
After a short introduction discussing the continued value of DNA evidence even with the complexities introduced given increased sensitivity, and the importance of understanding it in context, audience will view the following video: You've Been Lied to About DNA Evidence
- Lynn Garcia (TFSC)
12:00 p.m. - Lunch (on your own)
1:00 p.m. -DNA Can Transfer in Unexpected Ways (Real Case Examples)
During this session, faculty will discuss real case examples where DNA transferred in unexpected ways and provide insights from a defense attorney about how this has impacted his practice and how he approaches DNA testimony when transfer is a consideration.
- J.D. Schmid (Minnesota Board of Public Defense)
2:00 p.m. - FSC Reporting and Testimony Task Group Update
During this session, faculty will provide an update about the Texas DNA Technical Leader task group’s progress regarding DNA reporting and testimony guidance as well as other task group work products on the horizon.
- Lynn Garcia (FSC), Jarrah Kennedy (TFSC)
2:30 p.m. - Break
2:45 p.m. - Other Challenging Issues that May Impact Case Outcomes in a Complex DNA Mixture
This session will use a recent Travis County case to discuss the technical challenges of a higher order number of contributors, related persons (victim/eliminations to each other), and conditioning and how it impacted the outcome/legal disposition. Robust validation and clear standard operating procedures are critical for higher order mixtures, especially where there are related people. The importance of pre-trial preparation will be discussed, so lawyers can understand what they are presenting or preparing to cross-examine.
- Colin Bellair (Travis County DA), Jarrah Kennedy (TFSC)
3:45 p.m. - Forensic Genetic Genealogy (FGG) Update: Texas Cases
This session will briefly discuss some scientific and legal considerations with Forensic Genetic Genealogy (FGG). Attendees will better understand the limitations and applicability of FGG through the presentation of Texas cases.
- Dawn Boswell (UNT CHI), Leighton D’Antoni (Dallas Co DA)
4:15 p.m. - Wrap Up and Preview for Tomorrow
4:30 p.m. - Adjourn
Day Three: August 14 (3.25 hrs. CLE, incl 1.0 ethics)
Capstone: Professional Responsibilities and Case Breakout Sessions/Applying What We’ve Learned
9:00 a.m. - Roadmap
- Lynn Garcia (TFSC)
9:15 a.m. - Other Technologies You Might See in a Case: YSTRs/mtDNA/SNP (MPS)
This session will provide an overview of additional DNA-related technologies that are not specifically addressed in this program. Attendees should take away an improved understanding of the utility of the methods aided by real casework scenarios.
- Ashley Korsakas (DNA Labs International)
9:45 a.m. - The Journey Toward Useful and Timely Disclosure of Forensic Case Records in Texas Criminal Cases (1.0 Ethics CLE)
Attendees will learn about statutory disclosure obligations of lawyers, pertinent case law and related ethical obligations in the specific context of forensic records. They will also learn about the historical challenges lawyers and labs have faced in meeting disclosure obligations given technology limitations. Faculty will discuss the implementation of a new legislatively created statewide crime laboratory portal for purposes of better effectuating legal and ethical disclosure obligations in the specific context of forensic laboratory records.
- Lynn Garcia (TFSC), Kevin Callahan (TX DPS)
10:45 a.m. - Break
11:00 a.m. - Present Case Facts and Issue Spotting Small Group Breakout Sessions
Case facts will be provided to discuss in small groups. Faculty will serve as facilitators and help guide discussion as well as provide questions to the groups to consider. Attendees will be given the opportunity to apply what they have learned about issue spotting with DNA evidence when preparing for trial.
- Facilitators: Tiffany Larsen/Bill Wirskye (prosecutors); Nicolas Hughes/Chase Baumgartner(defense); Judge-elect Garza/Judge TBD
12:15 p.m. - Full Group Discussion / Q&A
Attendees will be given the opportunity to discuss issues covered during their small group sessions. Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask the faculty questions that have been submitted throughout the program.
12:45 p.m. - Closing Remarks/Takeaways
1:00 p.m. - Adjourn
Who Should Attend?
Attendance is exclusive to Texas criminal defense attorneys, public and private defender offices, prosecuting attorneys, judges, and their respective staff, unless invited as faculty. Texas law students and sworn Texas law enforcement officers are also encouraged to register.
MCLE Credit
This course is approved by the State Bar of Texas for 12.5 hours of MCLE credit, including 1 hour of ethics.
After the course, CAIL will apply for credit in California and New Mexico if requested. Attorneys in other states may seek credit through self-submission, provided that course materials and evaluations are not required.
Hotel Accommodations
Hampton Inn & Suites Austin @ The University/Capital
1701 Lavaca Street
Austin, Texas 78701
Reservations must be made by Monday, July 13, 2026, to receive the Group Rate.
Tuition Waiver Policy
To request an application for a scholarship or tuition waiver, contact Melissa Hooper at mhooper@cailaw.org.
Other Information
Cancellation Policy
Written cancellation must be received 5 business days prior to a program to receive a refund (Email: lgaspar@cailaw.org). After this date, no refunds, but substitution of attendees for this program will be permitted with prior approval. Registrants not entitled to a refund will receive the course materials. Note: Free registrants must attend the program to receive materials at no cost.
Nondiscriminatory Policy
The Center for American and International Law does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status in educational activities, scholarship programs or admissions.
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