Forensic science is definitely the game changer for lawyers and law professionals. How can knowledge of Forensic Science help lawyers and Law professionals grow academically as well as professionally in their career?
Depends on (1) the experience of the lawyers in arguments in front of juries on forensics, (2) the experience of the judge adjudicating the case, (3) the number of similar forensic cases heard in the jurisdiction of a similar nature.
Most attorneys are more interested in having experts explain what is mostly unfamiliar information to them. I have given seminars and classes to attorneys explaining basic concepts and how to use these to determine if they need to use an expert. These classes were well accepted. Most had continuing legal education credits attached to there attendance.
Simply put, they should at least have an expert look at the materials. "You don't know what you don't know." As a medicolegal consultant, I have seen on a very regular basis cases where interpretations of the forensic evidence were wrong and badly wrong in others. I also believe that one cannot fully serve two masters: if you are a lawyer, do that to the best of your ability. Consult a practitioner whose expertise in the forensic field is greater than your own - otherwise, why have an expert? Yes you need to understand forensics to be able to communicate with your expert(s) but for goodness sake - when you need someone, get someone good. After all, you wouldn't hire a plumber to fix your car, would you? You may be able to fix your car yourself, but who is unquestionably better? Go with the expert every time.
You can also refer to this book :
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/329999817_Guideline_In_Environmental_Forensic_For_Enforcement/stats
Forensic science is the bridge between science and scientific principles and protocols to the legal presentation of a case following the Court's protocols, decisions and "legalese" dicta. There are different rules for courts depending upon country, history and decisions made over time BUT the basic science is solid while new research can modify the theory and usage of science. It is the responsibility of the STATE's expert to present solid scientific opinions concerning the case at hand based upon forensic analyses and interpretations. It is the DEFEENSE's responsibility to confirm that what was done by the STATE's expert met those requirements mentioned above and, if not met to present a solid scientific and forensic explanation of what was not done properly. If a scientist makes a mistake, it will be corrected through additional research or study BUT if a forensic scientist makes a mistake that goes undetected, it can cost a person dearly--execution, sentencing to prison, monetary expenses of settlement, etc.
The forensic scientists representing either side in a case MUST be impartial and MUST not be swayed by the offense or the result of the offense but MUST solely be swayed in judgement by the scientific data and facts pertaining to the case at hand.
- Badges
- Science topic