Virginia Code § 18.2-268.7 outlines the procedures for analyzing blood samples for alcohol and drugs in criminal cases. It specifies how the Department of Forensic Science must examine, document, and transmit the analysis certificates to the court. The law also provides the accused the right to request the preservation and independent testing of the blood sample within 90 days.
Virginia law requires the Department to analyze blood samples for alcohol and drugs, document the process, and transmit certificates to the court as evidence.
Yes, the accused can request the Department to send the remaining blood to an independent laboratory within 90 days of analysis.
The Department preserves the remaining blood sample for at least 90 days after analysis.
The certificate includes the accused's name, date and time of receipt, examiner's name, confirmation of sealed vial, and the alcohol or drug content of the sample.