Understanding DNA Testing and Toxicology

for the Legal Sector

Understanding Hair Growth Rate: How It Affects Drug Detection Accuracy

Published 08/11/2024

When it comes to drug testing methods, hair strand testing (HST) offers a unique advantage in detecting drug use over an extended period. However, it comes with limitations, particularly due to variations in hair growth rates. In this blog, we’ll explore how individual differences in hair growth impact the accuracy of hair drug testing, with insights from our recent webinar.

Understanding the Detection Window for Hair Strand Testing

Published 23/10/2024

During a recent webinar on October 23rd, hosted by Dr. Salah Breidi (Toxicologist & Court Expert Witness) and Simon Dean (Chief Marketing Officer for AttoGroup), experts discussed the growing preference for hair strand testing over traditional blood and urine tests for detecting drug and alcohol use.

What Can We Learn About DNA Testing From the Film “Twins?”

Published 10/10/2024

Is “Twins” the Film Realistic and can real twins be tested for paternity? Dr. Steve Cummings explains all.

A DNA Anecdote on Solving Crimes

Published 04/10/2024

Below, we ask Dr. Steve Cummings, “How real is Silence of the Lambs?” We’re looking at a scene where a forensic entomologist is examining a moth pupa to see if any clues can be found.

How Reliable Are EtG and EtPa as Markers of Alcohol in Legal Cases?

Published 27/09/2024

Two of the most commonly used biomarkers for alcohol consumption in hair are Ethyl Glucuronide (EtG) and Ethyl Palmitate (EtPa). These markers offer an extended window for detecting alcohol use, up to 6 months in head hair. However, both markers come with specific vulnerabilities that can lead to false positives or negatives.

Safeguarding Confidentiality in Child Law

Published 26/09/2024

We like to lead by example when it comes to confidentiality for child care proceedings cases and this article will explain our policy when it comes to dealing with the boundaries of confidentiality that abides by EYFS confidentiality and data protection laws.

Contamination Webinar Review: What Did I Learn?

Published 16/09/2024

I recently had the opportunity to participate in the webinar session hosted by Dr Salah on the subject of “Contamination of Toxicology Samples in Child Custody Cases” and wanted to share three key takeaways.

Understanding Alcohol Testing: Beyond the Breathalyser

Published 04/09/2024

At AttoLife, we focus on exploring long-term alcohol consumption. We dive deeper by testing various alcohol biomarkers to provide a more comprehensive picture of an individual’s drinking habits over time. This is especially useful in the family law space, where a parent might need to prove a change in drinking behaviour or abstinence.

The Hidden Dangers of Spice-Laced Vapes

Published 22/08/2024

In recent years, vaping has gained significant popularity among young people, often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking. However, a disturbing trend has emerged, particularly in the UK: vapes laced with a synthetic drug known as "Spice" are finding their way into the hands of teenagers.