Legal Aspects of Forensic Science

4th amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures by the government

5th amendment

Protects against self-incrimination and double jeopardy

14th amendment

Ensures due process and equal protection under the law

Search Warrant

Legal document issued by a judge allowing law enforcement to search a specific location for evidence

Chain of Custody

Documented record of individuals who have had control of the collected evidence, ensuring its integrity and admissibility

Federal Rules of Evidence (FRE)

Governing rules for the admissibility of evidence in federal courts, providing greater flexibility compared to the Frye standard

Frye Standards

Established the first standard for admissibility of scientific evidence

Coppolino Standards

Standard allowing the admissibility of novel scientific tests if a foundation proving their validity can be laid

Daubert Standards

Guidelines for the admissibility of expert testimony, considering factors such as testing, peer review, error rate, standards, and general acceptance

Joiner Decision

Ruling that not only the methodology and principles but also the conclusions drawn from them must fit the standards for admissibility

Kumho Decision

Ruling that Daubert standards apply to scientific testing and other technical knowledge, with specific factors to consider for admissibility

Expert Witness

Qualified individual with scientific, technical, or specialized knowledge who can provide testimony to assist the trier of fact in understanding the evidence or determining a fact in issue

Voir Dire

Process of questioning a potential expert witness to determine their qualifications and expertise