Principles and Practice of Criminalistics The Profession of Forensic Science

Principles and Practice of Criminalistics: The Profession of Forensic Science expands on ideas proposed by leading thinkers throughout the history of forensic science and outlines a logical framework for the examination of physical evidence in a criminalistics laboratory. The book reexamines prevailing concepts in light of both technical and intellectual advances and provides a way of conceptualizing physical evidence from its origin through its interpretation.

Expanding on ideas proposed by leading thinkers throughout the history of forensic science, Principles and Practice of Criminalistics: The Profession of Forensic Science outlines a logical framework for the examination of physical evidence in a criminalistics laboratory. The book reexamines prevailing criminalistics concepts in light of both technical and intellectual advances and provides a way of conceptualizing physical evidence from its origin through its interpretation. Conceptually, the book explains what forensic scientists do and discusses the philosophical and practical considerations that affect the conduct of their work. To be sure, some of the ideas challenge conventional wisdom on the subject, and as such, are bound to provoke discussion among members of the forensic community. Against this background, Principles and Practice of Criminalistics: The Profession of Forensic Science is a tremendously valuable reference for professionals involved in forensic science and other related fields.

IntroductionThe Evolution of Forensic EvidenceOverview-A Unifying Paradigm of Forensic ScienceThe Origin of Evidence-Divisible Matter and TransferThe Recognition of Physical EvidenceClassification, Identification, and Individualization-Inference of SourceAssociation and Reconstruction-Inference of ContactGood Field Practice-Processing a Crime SceneGood Laboratory Practice-Establishing Validity and ReliabilityGood Forensic Practice-Obligations of the AnalystCommunicating Results-Where Science Meets the LawEthics and Accountability-The Profession of Forensic Science.