Direct PCR is fast becoming a popular method in forensic science due to the advantages of saving time
and money in the lab while increasing the probability of obtaining substantial results has a positive
rippling effect. A laboratory is able to reduce the time spent on processing trace DNA samples, which can
lead to investigators receiving important information in a timely manner that may not have been
possible using standard methods. This study highlights the benefits of direct PCR in forensic casework by
analysing trace and touch DNA on a range of substrates and exploring the loss of initial DNA due to
extraction.