On the standard of genetic identity assessment (based on the consensual predetermined level of the reliability)

Abstract

Since neither forensic scientists nor judges possess absolute criteria for evaluating the probability values, there is a room left for the subjective assessment of the DNA analysis results. Despite each case is unique, fundamentally it is possible to define a scientifically grounded threshold of identity and accept it as a standard, as suggested by Perepechina (2002). The systemic concept of the genetic identity assessment was developed with few later refinements (2014) on the basis of the predetermined consensual high level of reliability, justified by the scientific community and conforming to a particular national judicial system. For the choice of the criterion, an analysis of a series of the equivalent probabilities is offered to be carried out. It provides the complex assessment from different sides the risk of an error of identification and “visualize” it for those who make a decision regarding the criterion. The current report considers the updated model with regards to the contemporary context of the DNA identification. We suggest that this approach may also be applicable to other areas of forensic identification.