Abstract
Through a detailed examination of the rejection of DNA evidence in the Australian case of Tran, the author argues for a more questioning approach to DNA evidence and better safeguards to ensure greater reliability. The recent collapse of convictions based on expert evidence, culminating in the release of the Birmingham Six, has emphasised the need for defence lawyers to pursue full discovery with regard to scientific testing, and to be prepared to call witnesses of their own who are expert in all areas of the techniques involved. This is confirmed by the experience with regard to DNA evidence in the United States and Australia.