Indiana § 35-38-7-8 - Prima facie proof required

Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 35-38-7-8 — Prima facie proof required, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 35-38-7-8. Prima facie proof required

Sec. 8. After complying with section 7 of this chapter, the court shall determine whether the petitioner has presented prima facie proof of the following:

(1) That the evidence sought to be tested is material to identifying the petitioner as:

(A) the perpetrator of; or

(B) an accomplice to;

the offense that resulted in the petitioner's conviction.

(2) That a sample of the evidence that the petitioner seeks to subject to DNA testing and analysis is in the possession or control of either:

(A) the state or a court; or

(B) another person, and, if this clause applies, that a sufficient chain of custody for the evidence exists to suggest that the evidence has not been substituted, tampered with, replaced, contaminated, or degraded in any material aspect.

(3) The evidence sought to be tested:

(A) was not previously tested; or

(B) was tested, but the requested DNA testing and analysis will:

(i) provide results that are reasonably more discriminating and probative of the identity of the perpetrator or accomplice; or

(ii) have a reasonable probability of contradicting prior test results.

(4) A reasonable probability exists that the petitioner would not have:

(A) been:

(i) prosecuted for; or

(ii) convicted of;

the offense; or

(B) received as severe a sentence for the offense;

if exculpatory results had been obtained through the requested DNA testing and analysis.

As added by P.L.49-2001, SEC.2.

Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 35-38-7-8

What does Indiana Code § 35-38-7-8 cover?

Section 35-38-7-8 ("Prima facie proof required") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Indiana § 35-38-7-8?

A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 35-38-7-8" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Indiana law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.

How does Indiana § 35-38-7-8 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.