Forensic Science and Criminalistics Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on forensic science, including definitions, historical context, and major principles related to physical evidence and its analysis.

What is the definition of forensic science?

Forensic science relates to the court of law and involves the art and study of argumentation and debate, utilizing organized knowledge for systematic observation and investigation of natural phenomena.

What are the three major aspects of analyzing and interpreting physical evidence?

1. Identification 2. Individualization 3. Reconstruction.

What does physical evidence refer to in forensic investigations?

Physical evidence consists of articles and materials found in connection with an investigation that aid in establishing the identity of the perpetrator or circumstances of the crime.

Who wrote the first textbook emphasizing science in criminal investigation?

Hans Gross wrote 'Handbook for Examining Magistrates' in 1893.

What was significant about the crime lab established by Edmund Locard?

It was the first crime lab established in Lyon, France in 1910, marking a milestone in forensic science.

What principle is related to the exchange of trace evidence?

The Locard Exchange Principle.

What is 'modus operandi'?

Modus operandi refers to the method of operation or habits that describe how an offender executes a crime.

Define 'corpus delicti'.

Corpus delicti means 'the body of a crime,' referring to the material substance upon which a crime was committed.

What does contextual bias refer to in forensic evidence?

Contextual bias occurs when an item of evidence is compared with a reference sample from a known suspect.

What percentage of crime lab submissions are for blood alcohol analysis?

48% of crime lab submissions are for blood alcohol.