Frequently Asked Questions
Are you like CSI?
The only similarity between CSI and us is that we both perform DNA forensic testing. Unlike CSI, we do not attend crime scenes to collect evidence and we do not have results within 5 minutes. We test samples that are provided to us by organisations or individuals.
Can private individuals use Genetic Technologies services?
Yes, private individuals are able to use our services. However, for cases where results may be used in court you will need to contact our customer service team for further instructions in relation to sample preservation, packaging and chain of custody.
How much does it cost?
Cases start from $220. The price for forensic testing depends on the type of sample/testing and how many samples are submitted. For a detailed quote please contact our customer service staff.
How long does it take?
Our turn-around time is approximately 10 working days. Forensic testing usually requires very detailed examination; it is not like CSI where answers are available within the hour. Our turn-around times depend on the complexity of the case and how many samples have been sent to us for testing.
What type of samples can you test?
We can test a large variety of different sample types. These sample types include but are not limited to:
| Blood |
| Saliva |
| Semen stains |
| Hair |
| Faeces |
| Clothing |
| Tissue/skin cells |
| Condoms |
| Cigarette butts |
| Latex gloves |
| Production equipment |
| Envelopes |
| Trace swabs - such as when people drink from cups or cans, or touch door handles. |
What type of biological and DNA testing can you perform?
| STR testing |
| Y-STR testing |
| Mitochondrial testing |
| Forensic paternity |
| Mini-STR testing |
| Canine and animal DNA testing |
| Species identification testing |
| Blood, semen and saliva detection |
We also offer expert witness testimony, case consultation and legal support.
Can you determine the sex of a person tested?
Yes, the panel of tests used, as part of our standard forensic tests, includes the sex-identifying marker ‘Amelogenin’.
When should a police investigator consider using Y-Chromosome STR testing (e.g. Y filer)?
In sexual assault cases, especially where:
| the sperm fraction is mostly female but male DNA has been detected |
| there may be mixtures of DNA from more than two contributors and at least one is male |
| the evidence includes samples that cannot be differentially extracted (i.e. separated into a male and female fraction), such as saliva swabs from skin or fingernail clippings |
| a sample is positive for semen but no spermatozoa were detected |
What is chain of custody?
Chain of custody assures the integrity of a sample that requires forensic testing. The process begins when the client packages the sample for shipment. Each piece of evidence should be accompanied by a chain of custody document (contact our customer service staff to obtain a copy before sending samples). Samples should be sent by a recognized courier with a tracking number to our laboratory. Alternatively, samples can be packaged and delivered in person to us.
When an item undergoes presumptive or confirmatory testing, will it be damaged?
Depending on the item and the testing required an item may be either swabbed or a section cut from it.
How do I interpret a forensic report?
The forensic DNA report provided to you will list the samples tested, a short description of the procedures/tests performed and the results of testing. Typically this will include important findings such as whether blood was detected, if any DNA testing was performed and whether a DNA match was found among the tested samples. The report may also include a statistical analysis of the data, where relevant.
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