New publication - The reliability and reporting of DNA match strength for uncertain genotype evidence.

TrueAllele® Services Turnaround Time: Standard vs Rush


Short answer

Most TrueAllele screenings are completed in about 3 weeks once we have the lab’s electronic DNA data files. Expedited (“rush”) turnaround is available for an added fee.

The free screening provides a first TrueAllele look at DNA data. The initial results are preliminary and are not intended for use in court. A paid final TrueAllele report confirms the results and can be used for criminal justice purposes. The turnaround time for a report is also around 3 weeks.

We don’t retest physical evidence items. We interpret the electronic DNA data a lab already generated (.fsa or .hid).

Standard turnaround

Typical timeline: 3 weeks

Standard turnaround is suitable when:

  • you’re building a case file steadily
  • you want results soon, but you’re not facing an immediate deadline

Rush turnaround (paid expedited)

Rush turnaround is available for an added fee.

Rush services are useful when:

  • you have a fast-moving investigation (e.g., homicide or sex-crimes)
  • you need results quickly for charging decisions, warrants, or court
(We’ll confirm whether rush is feasible after we see the scope of the case and the complexity of the DNA data.)

What controls speed

These are the main drivers of turnaround time:

  • How quickly we receive the files
  • How many data items you submit
  • How complex the mixtures are

How to keep your case moving quickly

If you want the fastest answers:

  1. Send the autosomal STR electronic data files (.fsa or .hid) for the most probative items first
  2. Include your key context: item IDs, which items matter most, and any reference profiles you already have
  3. If you don’t have the files yet, request them from your lab. See the Sending Cases for TrueAllele Processing page.

FAQ

How long does it usually take to receive free screening results or court reports?

Typically 3 weeks, with expedited services available.


Can you go faster?

Yes. Rush turnaround is available for an added fee.


Do you need the physical evidence?

No. Only the lab’s autosomal STR electronic data files are needed.


Ready to Submit?

Tell us about your case. We’ll review it and tell you if we can get more information from the DNA data.

Free Screening

We don’t retest physical evidence items. We interpret the electronic DNA data a lab already generated.