What is HelixCross?

HelixCross is a free AI-powered simulation tool that trains forensic practitioners to testify confidently and accurately under cross-examination. It plays the role of a defense attorney, asking the kinds of questions a well-prepared lawyer would ask in a real criminal trial, and then provides structured coaching feedback on your performance.

Who is HelixCross for?

Primarily forensic scientists and DNA analysts who testify, or expect to testify, as expert witnesses in criminal proceedings. It is useful for newer analysts, building their first court experience, as well as experienced practitioners who want to sharpen specific skills or practice a particular type of case.

Is it really free?

Yes. Both the ChatGPT and Google Gemini versions are free to access. You will need a free account on the respective platform to use them, but there is no subscription or payment required for HelixCross itself.

Do I need any special technical skills to use it?

No. If you can have a text or voice conversation with a chatbot, you can use HelixCross. You simply type your answers or speak them using voice input as if you were on the witness stand.

How do I start a session?

Click the link for either the ChatGPT or Gemini version on this page. Once the chat opens, type/say “hi” or “start” or “begin” and the simulator will guide you through the setup. It will ask whether you want to use the built-in default case or provide your own, and then the cross-examination begins.

What is the DNA module about?

The flagship module focuses on forensic DNA evidence under cross-examination, specifically the kinds of challenges that arise in modern cases involving probabilistic genotyping, complex mixtures, and statistical interpretation. It runs through nine progressive phases, from voir dire and qualifications, through mixture interpretation and likelihood ratios, to admissibility framing and disclosure requirements.

Can I use my own case instead of the built-in scenario?

Absolutely! You can submit a de-identified version of a real case using the User Case Packet Form provided in the tool. The simulator will then adapt its questions to your specific evidence, methods, and report language. Please make sure all identifying information is removed before submitting.

What is Coach mode, and how do I access it?

After each phase of questioning, the simulator will ask if you want to pause for feedback. If you say yes, it switches to Coach mode and delivers a structured debrief: a summary of your performance, a list of vulnerable answers and why they are risky, suggested rewrites, a scored assessment across ten performance dimensions, and targeted practice drills. You can also request coaching at any time by typing pause or coach.

Can I practice in a language other than English?

Si/Qui/はい/Да/כן! Both ChatGPT and Gemini support multilingual interaction, so you can conduct the session in your preferred language. The underlying curriculum is in English, but the simulator can respond and receive answers in most major languages. 

Can I use voice instead of typing?

Yes. Both platforms support voice dictation, which is particularly useful for simulating the pacing and pressure of spoken courtroom testimony.

Is my information kept private?

Your conversations are private within your own account and are not visible to other users or to the HelixCross creators. However, please do not enter real case details, names, report numbers, or any other identifying information. Treat the tool as a training aid and de-identify all inputs in accordance with your institution's policy.

Can the AI coaching be wrong?

Yes, occasionally. Like any AI system, HelixCross can produce plausible-sounding but technically imprecise feedback. The simulator draws from a curated knowledge base of forensic science and legal standards, which substantially reduces this risk, but does not eliminate it. Always treat coaching output as a starting point for reflection, not as authoritative guidance. Review feedback critically and consult human experts for complex technical assessments.

Does HelixCross replace mock trials or human mentors?

No. It is designed to supplement, not replace, human-led training. Its advantage is availability — it can provide unlimited, consistent, on-demand practice that does not depend on scheduling an attorney or a senior colleague. Think of it as a sparring partner you can practice with any time, not a substitute for experienced mentorship.

Are other forensic disciplines planned?

Yes. The architecture is designed to be discipline-agnostic. Future modules for fingerprint examination, firearms and toolmark evidence, toxicology, and digital evidence are planned, each with tailored cross-examination scripts and knowledge bases.

How do I give feedback or report a problem?

Please use the anonymous feedback survey linked on this page. Your input directly shapes the next version of the tool. If you encounter a factual error in the coaching output, noting it in the feedback form is especially valuable.

Who built this and why?

HelixCross was developed by Dr. Mark Barash (San José State University) and Dr. Bruce Budowle (University of Helsinki), both of whom have extensive experience as forensic DNA analysts and expert witnesses. The tool grew out of a shared frustration with the lack of scalable, standardized testimony training in the forensic science community.