This repository provides a centralized, non-exhaustive collection of legal documents related to cold case investigations and prosecutions. It contains opinions, motions, warrants, and other relevant legal documents such as court orders and affidavits. This repository aims to assist investigators, prosecutors, and other criminal justice professionals in navigating the legal complexities often associated with cold cases, including those involving emerging tools like Forensic Genetic Genealogy.
This repository is organized into four main categories, each containing examples of key legal documents and materials:
We extend our sincere appreciation to all Prosecuting Cold Cases Using DNA (COLD) Program grantees that have contributed documents to this repository. Grantees interested in submitting additional materials are encouraged to email their documents to ForensicsTTA@rti.org.
Disclaimer: All legal documents contained within this repository are shared for general informational purposes only. The decision to share any legal documents discussing or referencing pending criminal matters rests solely with the Prosecuting Cold Cases Using DNA (COLD) grantees who have submitted such materials for inclusion. Although reasonable efforts are made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made regarding its completeness, reliability, or current validity. This repository is not a substitute for comprehensive legal research. All users are responsible for conducting independent legal research and exercising professional judgment in the use of these materials. Users must verify that any cited authority remains good law, has not been overruled, reversed, or otherwise negatively treated, and is otherwise published and citable within the applicable jurisdiction. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in the legal documents contained within this repository do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or the Bureau of Justice Assistance. To the extent that pending criminal matters are discussed or referenced, all such charges are merely accusations, and all defendants and/or suspects referenced herein are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.