About Forensic Edge

Based in the Portland/Vancouver-area, Forensic Edge is a highly recognized, innovative forensic services and consulting firm. The firm covers the full range of forensic disciplines and specializes in forensic DNA, serology and blood spatter. Forensic Edge delivers critical services for criminal and civil cases for both the prosecution and defense involving forensic issues.

The experts at Forensic Edge have deep and relevant experience and conduct all facets of their work with the highest integrity. It's the combination of the latest scientific information and knowledge, forensic process and casework experience, as well as being trial tested, that allows Forensic Edge to be highly effective.

The world of forensic DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) has made leaps and bounds since the forensic science's humble beginnings. The first RFLP (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) analyses took many months to obtain results. The early PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) systems, which include DQa, DQA1/Polymarker and D1S80, delivered results much faster, but lacked the discriminating power. The current method of choice, STRs (Short Tandem Repeats), combines the discriminating power of RFLP with the speed of PCR-based systems. Now, results can be delivered in days.

This technological advance has duly impacted the judicial system and forensic DNA analysis has become one of most effective forensic tools in assisting the determination of both guilt and innocence.

Forensic Edge helps to navigate the complex evidence and provide clear interpretation that can guide teams to the truth. It's understanding the code that is key. In addition, new advances such as Y Chromosome DNA Testing (Paternal Lineage Marker) and mtDNA (Mitochondrial DNA) analysis are very useful in certain cases.

All of these technology advances have created the requirement for a deep understanding of their evidentiary value and impact. It is critical to understand how the samples were taken, the type of DNA analysis method(s) used, and the interpretation of the evidence in the context of the case. Karen Lawless' expertise and years of experience in DNA provides clients with unique insight only a seasoned verteran can deliver.