Forensic Science: Key Concepts & Applications — Quick Notes

Value of Forensic Science to Society

  • Demonstrates the value to society and to the U.S. Criminal Justice System.
  • Provides objective, scientific analysis to support investigation, prosecution, and defense.
  • Bridges science and law; supports fair, accurate outcomes.

Forensic Science: Definitions and Scope

  • Forensic Science: application of science to law; distinguishes from criminology; forensic science is used across criminal, civil, and regulatory contexts.
  • Criminalistics is a subfield; criminology is a different discipline.
  • US Judicial System is adversarial (parties present evidence; judge/jury decide).

Key Databases and Tools

  • CODIS: Combined DNA Index System
  • IAFIS: Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System
  • NIBIN: National Integrated Ballistics Information Network

The Scientific Method

  • Steps: Question/Problem, Hypotheses, Experiment/Observation, Analysis, Conclusion, Communication.
  • Emphasize falsifiability, reproducibility, and peer review.

Variables: Independent vs Dependent

  • Independent variable: deliberately varied.
  • Dependent variable: observed/measured outcome.
  • Distinguish clearly in experiments.

Forensic Contributions: Major Areas

  • Corpus Delicti Statement Evaluation
  • Substance Identification
  • Personal Identification
  • Investigative Leads
  • Establish Linkages

Corpus Delicti

  • Latin term meaning "body of crime."
  • Used to refer to the essential facts that establish a crime.
  • Examples in forensics:
    • Identification of a controlled substance in drug possession
    • Determination of blood alcohol concentration
    • Identification of semen in alleged sexual assault

Forensic Art

  • Application of art to aid in identification and investigative leads.