Opinion ID: 2165640
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 15

Heading: Failure to Disclose Paternity Test

Text: Buckhalter contends that the State violated his due process rights by failing to present documentary evidence of the genetic test. He argues that it was contrary to notions of due process, which embody the principle of fundamental fairness, [7] not to present genetic testing evidence. The State, however, argues that it did disclose the existence of the paternity test exculpating Buckhalter through testimony. But the test itself was not admitted because it lacked foundation. [8] [4,5] Buckhalter cites In re Interest of Kelley D. & Heather D. [9] for the proposition that [t]he concept of due process embodies the notion of fundamental fairness and defies precise definition. And due process is a flexible notion that calls for such procedural protections as the particular situation demands. [10] Yet, the only argument Buckhalter makes is the bare assertion that the State's failure to present relevant, exculpatory evidence was unfair. But failure to introduce his genetic testwhose authenticity could not be verifieddoes not violate a principle of fundamental fairness.