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Forensic DNA Education for Law Enforcement Decisionmakers

The Prosecution Phase

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Investigation Through Arrest Phases

The Prosecution Phase

Photo of an empty courtroom
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (see reuse policy).

The prosecution phase is divided into two sub-phases: pre-trial and trial.

It is at the prosecution phase where the burden shifts from a probable cause standard to the more difficult standard of proof beyond a reasonable. As the standard changes, the mindset of personnel involved must change accordingly.

The investigation continues throughout the prosecution phase, requiring all parties involved to remain flexible and open to any changes in the details of, or approach to, the case.

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