Expert Witness Journal Issue 67 June/July 2026 - Flipbook - Page 114
be highly relevant, but its meaning depends on
where it was found, how it was deposited, and how it
relates to the issues in dispute. Equally, the absence
of biological evidence does not necessarily exclude
an allegation or proposition. These are the kinds of
questions that forensic biologists are routinely asked
to address.
Build understanding through training
and webinars
Alongside casework, Forensic Access also supports
professional learning by delivering training
and webinars that explore forensic evidence,
interpretation and the practical considerations that
arise in criminal proceedings. Topics such as DNA
interpretation, transfer and persistence, body 昀氀uid
identi昀椀cation, and the use of streamlined reporting
can a昀昀ect how evidence is approached at an early
stage. Greater understanding across a broad range of
forensic topics supports more informed questioning,
stronger preparation and more e昀昀ective instruction
within criminal cases. This is particularly important
where legal teams, investigators and courts need
to understand what a result shows, but also the
potential limitations and conclusions that can be
drawn from the evidence.
The 24 Hours in Police Custody special documentary
provides a useful opportunity to highlight this work
in a broader way. Public attention often turns to
forensic science in high-pro昀椀le cases and television
coverage, but much of the discipline depends on
detailed scienti昀椀c reasoning carried out away
from public view. Forensic biologists contribute by
examining evidence carefully, applying specialist
knowledge to the facts of the case, and ensuring
that conclusions are expressed with accuracy and
restraint.
Contact Us
The programme also highlights the breadth of work
carried out within forensic biology. In this case, the
Forensic Access biology team contributed to the
Y-STR DNA pro昀椀ling work carried out on 昀椀ngernail
clippings from Una Crown, working in conjunction
with another forensic laboratory as part of the wider
forensic examination.
If you require expert support in cases involving
DNA evidence, body 昀氀uids, blood pattern analysis or
a wider range of forensic evidence, get in touch with
our casework team on 01235 774870
or at science@forensic-access.co.uk.
Mr. Glenn Horton
Consultant Fire Engineers
Chartered Fire Engineers, Chartered Members
of IFE & CABE, Prof M SFPE MEWI
A significant portion of my workload is comprised of numerous cases involving the
use of combustible materials in the build-up of external walls, alongside other
alleged fire safety deficiencies. My instructions generally involve compliance with
guidance, regulations and contracts, organising fire tests for systems and materials.
I specialise in the application of Part B of Building Regulations, the Regulatory
Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005& the design and installation of fire fighting
systems in England and Wales. Taking instruction in relation to the cause, origin and
spread of fire and have worked on a number of significant matters in this field.
I have extensive experience including the preparation of reports under CPR for
Civil and Criminal cases and an extensive CV of cases and formal instructions, as
well as attendance at court, adjudications and mediations
I have worked throughout the UK (including the Channel Isles & Scotland), Asia,
Europe and Africa. Specialising in working with clients who have fire safety issues,
whether they be civil or criminal matters.
Recent cases include: Provision of expert support arising out of construction
defects, exposing our client to potential prosecution due to alleged non-compliant
external wall build-up; expert reports following post-fire prosecution; application
to have a formal notice withdrawn, contractual disputes between landlords and
tenants.
I have been involved in fire safety since 1981, initially as fire officer, then
subsequently as a fire consultant and engineer.
Contact: HH Legal Support | Telephone: +44 (0)207 193 2990
Mobile: +44 (0)797 091 4416 | Email: glennhorton@HHlegalsupport.com
Website: www.hhlegalsupport.com
EXPERT WITNESS JOURNAL
112
JUNE 2026
