Can DNA Impact My Case After My Utah Criminal Conviction?

 Posted on February 10, 2025 in Criminal Defense

DNA is commonly used in criminal cases to demonstrate a defendant’s guilt. However, forensic investigation methods have developed over the years. With more advanced technologies and evidence collection methods available, post-conviction DNA testing has been helping prove the innocence of people wrongfully convicted of serious crimes in Utah. If you believe current science could exonerate you, speak with a qualified Utah criminal defense lawyer to understand your options. 

When is Post-Conviction DNA Testing Feasible?

You cannot overstate the importance of DNA evidence in criminal law. For many years, it has played a decisive role in the fate of many defendants. In recent years, new DNA samples and advanced forensic methods have been brought in to reexamine an old case and many wrongful convictions have been overturned with innocent prisoners exonerated as a result.

According to Utah law, you can petition the court for post-conviction DNA testing if:

• There is still biological evidence from the crime scene. You need to demonstrate that relevant evidence containing DNA that can shed light on what truly happened still exists and has not been destroyed or corrupted.

• There is new technology that could yield different results. If the testing methods have remained the same since your case was originally investigated, there is not much reason to believe another test would lead to a different conclusion. However, if newer methods are more accurate, you might be able to get the DNA retested.

• New testing could prove your innocence. You need to be able to explain why new DNA results could overturn the original conviction.

If the court approves your petition, the DNA will be sent to an accredited laboratory to be tested. When the results from this new testing are in, your lawyer can use them to make a motion for a new trial or an exoneration, depending on how convincing they are.

Post-conviction DNA testing is an exciting field that has been responsible for overturning numerous wrongful convictions. However, not all petitions are approved, and if yours is, it does not mean you will necessarily be exonerated. A criminal defense lawyer well-versed in situations like yours can review your case and why you believe new DNA testing could help, and advise you on how to move forward.

Contact a Salt Lake City, UT Criminal Defense Lawyer

There is nothing more frustrating than being told that forensic evidence proves you did something that you know you did not. At Collins Rupp, P.C., we are passionate about helping our clients seek justice, even after a conviction has already been handed down. If you are interested in post-conviction DNA testing, call 385-777-2753 to schedule a free consultation with one of our esteemed Davis County, UT criminal defense attorneys so we can discuss your case with you and offer our legal guidance based on our years of experience.