dna identification
DNA identification. A method of scientific identification based on a person’s unique genetic makeup; specif., the comparison of a person’s deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) — a patterned chemical structure of genetic information — with the DNA in a biological specimen (such as blood, tissue, or hair) to determine whether the person is the source of the specimen. • DNA evidence is used in criminal cases for purposes such as identifying a victim’s remains, linking a suspect to a crime, and exonerating an innocent suspect. — Also termed DNA fingerprinting; genetic fingerprinting; DNA profiling; DNA typing. Cf. HUMAN-LEUKOCYTE ANTIGEN TEST. [Cases: Criminal Law 388.2; Evidence 150. C.J.S. Evidence §§ 216–226.]
