DNA on Trial
What Judges and Lawyers Need to Know
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Austin, Texas, USA
L:ocation TBA
Austin, Texas
Grant Staff: +1.972.244.3415
Registrar: +1.972.244.3404
E-Mail: mhooper@cailaw.org
Program 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 on June 4-5, 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.
Speaker and Topics
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.
The faculty list and agenda will be posted as they become available.
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.
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 will be submitted to the Texas State Bar for 12 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
Hotel information will be posted when it becomes available, no later than 60 days before the course.
Scholarship Policy
- First three years of practice in the field
- Submission of a qualifying statement (150 words or less) or a reference letter, at least four weeks before the event
Priority may be given to those with a recommendation letter. Scholarships are awarded three weeks before the course and must be accepted within 24 hours. If declined, the opportunity passes to the next qualifying candidate.
Scholarship decisions are based on need and merit and are subject to approval by CAIL staff. Successful applicants will be reimbursed for eligible travel expenses after attending, in accordance with grant guidelines and restrictions. Covered expenses may include:
- Transportation (airfare, bus, mileage)
- Lodging
- Meals during travel (lunches provided at the event)
- Full tuition waiver
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.
Privacy Policy
We do not sell or rent information to any outside parties. By providing your information, you will receive postal and electronic communications from The Center for American and International Law (CAIL) in accordance with CAIL's Privacy Policy. If we co-sponsor a program with another organization, information may be shared between the parties. All such co-sponsors will be identified on the event details and registration page. At any point, you can opt-out or unsubscribe by selecting either link at the bottom of each email or call us at 972.244.3400.