Roles and Responsibilities of Criminal Investigators and Forensic Scientists

These flashcards cover the key roles and responsibilities of criminal investigators and forensic scientists, emphasizing their methods, importance, and operational standards.

Observation

The process of carefully scanning environments to identify anomalies, including analyzing behaviors to detect inconsistencies in people.

Analysis

Utilizing logical reasoning and scientific methods to deduce conclusions from collected data and evidence.

Documentation

The thorough recording of observations, evidence, and findings throughout an investigation to ensure clarity and future reference.

Evidence Processing

The treatment and analysis of evidence in controlled environments, involving various specialized techniques like fingerprint lifting and toxicology.

Evidence Preservation

The critical practice of properly storing evidence to prevent degradation or contamination, ensuring its admissibility in court.

Chain of Custody

The tracking of evidence from the moment it is collected until it is presented in court, ensuring its integrity and admissibility.

Quality Assurance (QA)

A system to ensure laboratory practices meet established standards through regular audits and compliance verification.

Quality Control (QC)

The daily monitoring within a lab to prevent errors, which includes the calibration of equipment and validation of test results.

Objective Findings

Conclusions made based solely on facts and evidence, free from personal bias or influence, essential for fair investigations.

Testifying in Court

The act of presenting findings and explaining evidence within a courtroom setting, requiring clarity, accuracy, and the ability to withstand cross-examination.