On Demand
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Understanding the Use & Misuse of Forensic Evidence Through Trial
Produced on December 28, 2020
Course Information
Course Description
This program, taught by Florina Altshiler, reviews the latest developments in crime scene investigation and forensic evidence science with a focus on the science behind DNA and latent prints. The course explores strategies for jury selection and trial with a particular focus on addressing the science of DNA, latent prints, and modern technology through cross-examination of experts and jury selection techniques.
Learning Objectives:
- Review the latest in DNA science
- Apply DNA science to effective jury selection
- Prepare appropriate cross-examination questions for DNA experts
- Effectively address issues with a crime scene investigation
- Review the latest science of latent fingerprints
- Apply the science to trial techniques
Credit Information
Faculty
Florina Altshiler
Russo & Toner, LLP
Florina Altshiler is a litigation attorney specializing in labor law and premise liability matters. Her practice also includes medical malpractice and general negligence law. Previously, Ms. Altshiler worked as an Assistant District Attorney for the State of Alaska where she handled the prosecution of the highest-level felonies including homicides, sexual assaults and violent felonies through jury trial. She has prosecuted over twenty cases through jury verdict. Prior to working as a prosecutor, Ms. Altshiler honed her litigation skills at nationally recognized law firms in New York City for seven years. She has significant experience in the areas of complex medical malpractice, premises liability and construction accident litigation.
Ms. Altshiler is the managing attorney for the firm’s Buffalo, NY office.
Education:
- J.D. from St. John’s University School of Law, 2005
- International Studies Certificate from Binghamton University, 2003
- B.A. in Psychology from Binghamton University, 2002
Experience:
- Practicing attorney for over 10 years
- Litigated cases at the State and Federal level through trial and appeal
- Over 20 trials through jury verdict as first chair
- Arbitrator, Civil Court of the City of New York
- Instructor of Trial Advocacy at Columbia University in the City of New York
- Adjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy (criminal and civil) at St. John’s School of Law
- Mock Trial Coach, Anchorage High School
Admissions:
- New York State, 2006
- New Jersey State, 2005
- Alaska State, 2013
- United States District Courts of the Southern, Eastern and Western Districts of New York
Honors:
- Alaska State Legislature Citation
- Dr. Thomas C. Beneventano Award for Legal Medicine
- Rosenberg Scholar, St. John’s School of Law
- Institutional Merit Scholar, St. John’s School of Law
- 2004 CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Criminal Trial Advocacy
- U.S. President’s Student Service Award for Outstanding Service to America
- United Hospital Fund’s Student Achievement Award
- Rosefsky Language and Culture Scholar, Binghamton University
- Semi-Finalist, Intel National Science Talent Search
- Salomon Smith Barney Quality of Life Research Competition
- New York City Hall Commendation for Research
Presentations:
- Erie County Bar Association CLE Presenter: Pre-Litigation Statements Qualified Privilege or Defamation? April, 2015
- Erie County Bar Association CLE Presenter: Intensive (two-day) Trial College, anticipated October, 2015
- WGRZ-TV: Civil Trial Analysis of the Corasanti trial
- Contributing writer in Law and Policy to The Public
Reviews
Interesting subjects.
I rarely comment on these presentations but I just want to say that Ms. Altshiler was obviousl;y very well prepared. She didn't presume any prior knowledge of those watching and I learned a lot. I will look for other classes presented by her. One of the very best that I've signed up for on Lawline. Thank you.
A thorough and detailed presentation. Well done.
nice and crisp prsentation
Well Done! Slides very important
professor was good
Thank you!
Outstanding content and expertise.