Day one of the preliminary hearing focused entirely on procedural matters as the court organized evidence handling and forensic standards. Judge Kennedy-Powell mediated disputes over hair sample quantities (ordering a maximum of 10 per scalp area) and established evidence logistics. The testimony of LAPD lab director Michele Kestler on testing protocols sparked aggressive cross-examination from defense counsel Shapiro, who attacked her credentials and documented remaining samples across 60+ blood evidence items.

• Judge Kennedy-Powell orders maximum 10 hairs per scalp area, compromising between prosecution (100 needed) and defense (1-3 sufficient) arguments
• LAPD Assistant Laboratory Director Michele Kestler testifies on evidence items, blood splits, and scientific standards for forensic samples
• Shapiro attacks Kestler's credentials and DNA training background during aggressive cross-examination
• Discovery issue surfaces: Defense has not received witness's curriculum vitae; cross-examination paused until resolved
• Defense team logistics arranged in chambers; Shapiro granted adjournment to attend close friend's funeral