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 EvidenceThe Forensic Sciences Characteristics of the Adversarial Legal SystemForensic Science at the Investigative and Evidentiary StagesWhen Forensic Science Goes Wrong Fingerprint Science and EvidenceCollection of Fingerprint Evidence from Crime ScenesAnalysis and Interpretation of Fingerprint EvidenceTraining and Performance of Fingerprint AnalystsWhen Fingerprints Incriminate the Wrong Person DNA Science and EvidenceCollection of DNA Evidence from Crime ScenesProfiling and Interpretation of DNA EvidenceTraining and Performance of Analysts and LaboratoriesWhen DNA Incriminates the Wrong Person Forensic Scientific Evidence in the CourtsAdmissibility of Forensic Evidence Presentation of Forensic Science Evidence by Experts and LawyersJuror and Judge Perceptions and Understanding of Forensic EvidenceImproving Forensic Science and EvidenceImprovements at the Investigative StageImprovements at the Evidentiary StageImprovements at the Adjudicative StageEnhancing Legal Professionals’ UnderstandingEnhancing Lay People’s UnderstandingBest Practice Lessons for Lawyers