Forensic Science Evidence Best Practices for Law

Improved usage of forensic science evidence by legal practitioners is essential to reduce miscarriages of justice. This book presents critical insights into contemporary issues of forensic proof from a broad perspective. Using DNA and fingerprint evidence, the authors compare and contrast the science of forensics and how it is communicated to judges, juries, and counsel. With authors from Australia, the UK, and the U.S., the book also addresses how these different countries address science in the courtroom. This resource is ideal for all those who work in forensic capacities, including those scientists who increasingly are called to testify abroad.

Introduction to Forensic Science and Evidence. The Forensic Sciences. Characteristics of the Adversarial Legal System. Forensic Science at the Investigative and Evidentiary Stages. When Forensic Science Goes Wrong. Fingerprint Science and Evidence. Collection of Fingerprint Evidence from Crime Scenes. Analysis and Interpretation of Fingerprint Evidence. Training and Performance of Fingerprint Analysts. When Fingerprints Incriminate the Wrong Person. DNA Science and Evidence. Collection of DNA Evidence from Crime Scenes. Profiling and Interpretation of DNA Evidence. Training and Performance of Analysts and Laboratories. When DNA Incriminates the Wrong Person. Forensic Scientific Evidence in the Courts. Admissibility of Forensic Evidence. Presentation of Forensic Science Evidence by Experts and Lawyers. Juror and Judge Perceptions and Understanding of Forensic Evidence. Improving Forensic Science and Evidence. Improvements at the Investigative Stage. Improvements at the Evidentiary Stage. Improvements at the Adjudicative Stage. Enhancing Legal Professionals’ Understanding. Enhancing Lay People’s Understanding. Best Practice Lessons for Lawyers.