The Michigan State Police Forensic Science Division is responsible for testing blood samples for the presence and quantification of alcohol and/or controlled substances for all DUI prosecutions in the state. Their staff includes approximately 40 forensic scientists and technicians who are responsible for the analysis of about 15,000 blood and urine samples annually. They are the ones that testify in court about analysis should it be necessary, at a trial or hearing. Therefore, they are the ones that defense lawyers cross examine when fighting a case.
Criminal defense vs. forensic science testimony
Every year, the forensic science division holds a two-day training program for their staff. This year, in Gaylord, Mich., I became the first criminal defense attorney to present to the forensic science division (specifically for their toxicology and controlled substance disciplines). It was an honor to be selected, as it demonstrates that they have respect for my work and intelligence of this field. They thought I would provide them an expert analysis of the defense side of forensic science in the context of a DUI litigation.
We discussed a variety of interesting subjects during the 60 minute presentation such as:
- the necessity for prosecutors to receive forensic science training,
- the training available to defense lawyers, and
- why defense lawyers may come off like they are personally attacking them on the witness stand.
We all agreed that, as scientists, they should not be biased for the prosecution and let their work speak for itself.
Improving the relationship between criminal defense attorneys and forensic scientists
(Pictured left to right: MSP Lansing Laboratory Supervisor Geoffrey French, criminal defense attorney Barton Morris, Controlled Substances Technical Leader Elizabeth Gormley and Toxicology Technical Leader Nicholas Fillinger)
We also discussed potential improvements suggested for both the division and what the Defense bar can do to improve their relationship with the department. The head of their division, Geoffrey French, was present and actively participating in the discussion as well. He ensured that I felt welcome and appreciated. It was truly a great experience and one that I was very honored to accept.
As the only ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist in Michigan, Barton Morris is dedicated to evaluating forensic evidence. Hiring a lawyer with extensive forensic knowledge possessed a significant advantage during the trial process.
Attorney Morris has enjoyed a very successful and distinguished career as a trial lawyer providing high quality legal representation in the area of state and federal criminal defense for 19 years. He is known for his trial preparation by fellow attorneys, judges and clients alike. As a trial attorney, he is dedicated to attaining justice in every case, and is prepared to take on complex legal issues with success. Barton and his law firm pride themselves on obtaining results for their clients that other attorneys cannot.
Not only does Barton Morris have extensive experience, he also engages in continuing legal education to provide the highest quality legal services. Barton has received specialized scientific training through the American Chemical Society. He attended the prestigious Trial Lawyers College and serves on its Alumni Association Board of Directors. Barton Morris is also a board member of several distinguished legal associations including the Michigan Association of OWI Attorneys, and the DUI Defense Lawyer’s Association Justice Foundation. He is also an active member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys and has also graduated from their National Criminal Defense Trial College in Macon, Georgia.
Barton Morris was chosen as a Top Lawyer of Metro Detroit for 2012, 2013 & 2014 for DUI/DWI and criminal defense by DBusiness Magazine and Hour Magazine. Barton Morris was also chosen as a Super Lawyer in Criminal Defense for 2014-2017 and Barton Morris is the only Lawyer in Michigan designated by the American Chemical Society as a “Forensic Lawyer-Scientist”