The process of DNA fingerprinting is defined as the identification of an individual on the molecular level in relation with the court of law. DNA fingerprinting has revolutionized paternal and maternal disputes, forensic medicine, and the identification of victims, perpetrators, and links between them. This report will analyze the areas specified above, two examples of cases that were based mainly on DNA fingerprinting, and controversial issues debated frequently.

Scientific Background

Coined in 1984 by Alec Jeffreys, a British researcher, DNA fingerprinting is a complex system of procedures that lead to the distinction of a certain individual. This is often used in law to match a certain situation with a specific person. In this section, the practical background for understanding the concept of DNA fingerprinting will be provided.

The human DNA is strikingly similar from person to person. In fact, approximately 99.9% of our DNA structure is the same; it is...