Author: Joseph L. PetersonPublisher:
ISBN:
Category : Criminal investigation
Languages : en
Pages : 8
Book Description
Use of Forensic Evidence by the Police and Courts
Author: Joseph L. PetersonPublisher:
ISBN:
Category : Criminal investigation
Languages : en
Pages : 8
Book Description
Forensic Evidence in Court
Author: Christine Beck LissitzynPublisher:
ISBN: 9781531002237
Category : Evidence, Criminal
Languages : en
Pages : 0
Book Description
The second edition of Forensic Evidence in Court updates the original version, which was published in 2007. This edition continues to focus on the use of forensic evidence in criminal trials by examining particular case studies. In addition, it adds two new topics: 1. Computer and Digital Forensics 2. Firearms, Ballistics, and Toolmarks This edition includes several significant developments in the use of forensic evidence at trial since 2007. The first is the U.S. Supreme Court case, Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts, which established a right under the Confrontation Clause of the U.S. Constitution to cross-examine certain forensic analysts. That case involved an analyst who certified that a substance linked to the defendant was cocaine. This right was subsequently extended to an analyst who performed a blood alcohol test. However, when the Supreme Court was asked to rule on the applicability of this rule to DNA examiners, it stated that the examiner would be required to testify only if the results of the test were "testimonial" in nature. The case has been criticized and some lower courts have subsequently refused to follow it. Another significant development was the release of a report on the scientific reliability of forensic testing in many different areas issued by the National Research Council. The Report, called Strengthening Forensic Evidence: A Path Forward, called for more scientific testing and for standardization in qualification of examiners and in laboratory conditions. The only area of forensic examination that the report viewed as scientifically reliable is DNA. Various government agencies have been established to attempt to implement some of these recommendations. Funding is obviously a huge obstacle to implementing many of the recommendations. A development in forensics itself involved the extension of newer technologies in DNA testing, including a process called "Low Copy DNA," which tests quantities previously too small to type as well as DNA test kits that can be used at crime sites. A further development is the expansion of computer hacking, computer fraud and the ubiquitous nature of computers in society. We have added a new chapter to reflect what will continue to be a contentious issue in court-- "proving location and events with digital evidence." Advances in the psychological sciences have results in courts addressing issues of eyewitness testimony. Courts are coming to realize that eyewitness identifications are not as reliable as once thought. As such, courts are struggling with how best to address these issues: through jury instructions, expert testimony, or though some other method. It has come to light that eyewitness identification issues once thought to be within the "ken" of the average juror are most certainly not, and are appropriate for some manner of court intervention. This book can be used in courses for the following degrees: paralegal, criminal justice, sociology, and political science. Forensic Evidence in Court is also appropriate for use in a legal specialty course. Assignments include case law research, study of rules of evidence, how to select and prepare an expert witness, comparison of legal tests used to admit forensic evidence, study of standards used to review admission of forensic experts on appeal, and written work demonstrating critical analysis. Any attorney can teach this course, using the Teacher's Manual and sample assignments. Adjuncts experienced in criminal law or extensive use of expert testimony are particularly well suited. Guest lecturers from state forensic laboratories and state law enforcement forensic investigators give added perspective.
Use of Forensic Evidence by the Police and Courts
Author: Joseph L. PetersonPublisher:
ISBN:
Category : Criminal investigation
Languages : en
Pages : 5
Book Description
Use of Forensic Evidence by the Police and Courts
Author: Use of Forensic Evidence by the Police and Courts
Author: Joseph L. PetersonPublisher:
ISBN:
Category : Criminal investigation
Languages : en
Pages : 6
Book Description
The Evaluation of Forensic DNA Evidence
Author: National Research CouncilPublisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309134404
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 270
Book Description
In 1992 the National Research Council issued DNA Technology in Forensic Science, a book that documented the state of the art in this emerging field. Recently, this volume was brought to worldwide attention in the murder trial of celebrity O. J. Simpson. The Evaluation of Forensic DNA Evidence reports on developments in population genetics and statistics since the original volume was published. The committee comments on statements in the original book that proved controversial or that have been misapplied in the courts. This volume offers recommendations for handling DNA samples, performing calculations, and other aspects of using DNA as a forensic toolâ€"modifying some recommendations presented in the 1992 volume. The update addresses two major areas: Determination of DNA profiles. The committee considers how laboratory errors (particularly false matches) can arise, how errors might be reduced, and how to take into account the fact that the error rate can never be reduced to zero. Interpretation of a finding that the DNA profile of a suspect or victim matches the evidence DNA. The committee addresses controversies in population genetics, exploring the problems that arise from the mixture of groups and subgroups in the American population and how this substructure can be accounted for in calculating frequencies. This volume examines statistical issues in interpreting frequencies as probabilities, including adjustments when a suspect is found through a database search. The committee includes a detailed discussion of what its recommendations would mean in the courtroom, with numerous case citations. By resolving several remaining issues in the evaluation of this increasingly important area of forensic evidence, this technical update will be important to forensic scientists and population geneticistsâ€"and helpful to attorneys, judges, and others who need to understand DNA and the law. Anyone working in laboratories and in the courts or anyone studying this issue should own this book.
Forensic Science in Court
Author: Donald SheltonPublisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
ISBN: 1442201894
Category : Law
Languages : en
Pages : 198
Book Description
Forensic Science in Court explores the legal implications of forensic science—an increasingly important and complex part of the justice system. Judge Donald Shelton provides an accessible overview of the legal aissues, from the history of evidence in court, to "gatekeeper" judges determining what evidence can be allowed, to the "CSI effect" in juries. The book describes and evaluates various kinds of evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, handwriting, hair, bite marks, tool marks, firearms and bullets, fire and arson investigation, and bloodstain evidence. Assessing the strengths and limitations of each kind of evidence, the author also discusses how they can contribute to identifying the "who," "how," and "whether" questions that arise in criminal prosecutions. Author Donald Shelton draws on the depth of his experiences as courtroom prosecutor, professor, and judge, to provide a well-rounded look at these increasingly critical issues. Case studies throughout help bring the issues to life and show how forensic science has been used, both successfully and not, in real-world situations.
Criminal Evidence
Author: Derek RegensburgerPublisher: Aspen Publishing
ISBN: 1543849075
Category : Law
Languages : en
Pages : 843
Book Description
With lucid text, four-color illustrations, and abundant examples, Criminal Evidence follows the path of evidence From Crime Scene to Courtroom. Focusing on the Federal Rules of Evidence and their state counterparts, Derek Regensburger offers a clear introduction to the principles of evidence and instructions for collecting, preserving, and presenting evidence in a criminal case. The book surveys the major concepts of evidence law such as relevance and burden of proof, discovery, admission of expert witness testimony, impeachment of witnesses, character evidence, hearsay, authentication of physical evidence, and more. Actual trials and news excerpts bring the material to life as they illustrate the role of evidence in real cases. Videos of mock trial scenes on the book’s website reinforce students’ understanding of key concepts. New to the Third Edition: A new chapter on trial practice and witness preparation Streamlined discussions of the exclusionary rule, Miranda rights, and rape shield laws Updated material on eyewitness identification and admission of confessions, particularly the modification of the corpus delicti rule by many state courts Changes concerning the reliability of forensic evidence due to the release of the 2016 report on the issue authored by the President’s Council on Science and Technology, including the FBI’s rejoinder to that report New and expanded sections on bloodstain pattern analysis, arson investigation, and handwriting analysis New and updated practical examples and Evidence in Action articles to feature more recent events, including the Kyle Rittenhouse trial Professors and students will benefit from: Straightforward text that follows the evidence from collection to trial Accessible three-part organization I. The Collection and Preservation of Evidence II. Pretrial Matters III. Admissibility of Evidence Four-color photographs and exhibits that illustrate evidentiary concepts Evidence in Action, observed in real trials and news excerpts Practical examples that apply legal concepts through hypothetical scenarios Review questions and application problems at the end of each chapter test students’ mastery of the material Short mock trial scenes on the companion website that illustrate key concepts discussed in the text
Crime Scene to Court
Author: Peter C WhitePublisher: Royal Society of Chemistry
ISBN: 1839162929
Category : Law
Languages : en
Pages : 680
Book Description
The fascinating field of forensic science can be challenging to understand. Written for non-scientists, or those with limited scientific knowledge, this book covers the three main areas of an investigation where forensic science is practised: at the scene of the crime, in the forensic laboratory and at court. The fourth edition of this popular book features a new chapter on identifying an individual, including biometrics and a new chapter covering digital crime. The book has been updated throughout, keeping readers at the forefront of current practices across the forensic disciplines. Ideal for anyone studying forensic science or law, this book details how crime scene and forensic examinations are conducted in the United Kingdom, courtroom procedures and the role of the expert witness. It is an excellent source of information for anyone with a role in an investigation, including the police and crime scene investigators.
Introduction to Criminal Investigation
Author: Michael BirzerPublisher: CRC Press
ISBN: 1439897484
Category : Law
Languages : en
Pages : 390
Book Description
The manner in which criminal investigators are trained is neither uniform nor consistent, ranging from sophisticated training protocols in some departments to on-the-job experience alongside senior investigators in others. Ideal for students taking a first course in the subject as well as professionals in need of a refresher, Introduction to Criminal Investigation uses an accessible format to convey concepts in practical, concrete terms. Topics discussed include: The history of criminal investigation in Western society Qualifications for becoming an investigator, the selection process, and ideal training requirements Crime scene search techniques, including planning and post-search debriefing Preparing effective field notes and investigative reports Interviewing and interrogating Types of evidence found at the crime scene and how to collect, package, and preserve it The contributions of forensic science to criminal investigations and the equipment used in crime labs Investigative protocol for a range of crimes, including property crimes, auto theft, arson, financial crimes, homicide, assault, sex crimes, and robbery Specialized investigations, including drug trafficking, cybercrime, and gang-related crime Legal issues involved in criminal investigations and preparing a case for trial Bringing together contributions from law enforcement personnel, academics, and attorneys, the book combines practical and theoretical elements to provide a comprehensive examination of today‘s criminal investigative process. The accessible manner in which the information is conveyed makes this an ideal text for a wide-ranging audience.