Forensics

Forensics is the application of scientific methods and techniques to matters under investigation by a court of law. It is a multidisciplinary field that involves a wide range of scientific knowledge, including biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and psychology.

Overview

Forensics, also known as forensic science, is used to help establish the facts in a legal case, such as a criminal trial. It involves the collection, preservation, and analysis of evidence during the course of an investigation. While some forensic scientists work in the lab, others work in the field, collecting evidence at crime scenes.

Branches of Forensics

Forensics is a broad field that encompasses many sub-disciplines, including:

• Forensic pathology: This involves determining the cause of death by examining a corpse. A forensic pathologist is a medical doctor who has completed training in anatomical pathology and has subsequently specialized in forensic pathology.

• Forensic psychology: This involves applying psychological principles and methods to the legal system. Forensic psychologists often work in prisons, jails, rehabilitation centers, police departments, law firms, schools, government agencies, or in private practice.

• Forensic anthropology: This involves the identification and examination of skeletal remains, to help establish the identity of a person and cause of death.

• Digital forensics: This involves the recovery and investigation of material found in digital devices, often in relation to computer crime.

Forensic Techniques

Forensic scientists use a variety of techniques to analyze evidence, including:

• DNA profiling: This is used to identify individuals based on their respective DNA profiles. DNA can be extracted from many types of samples, including blood, hair, skin, saliva, and semen.

• Fingerprint analysis: This is used to identify individuals based on the unique patterns of ridges and valleys on their fingertips.

• Ballistics: This involves the analysis of bullets and bullet impacts to determine information of use to a court—like the type of firearm used in a shooting.

See Also

• Criminalistics
• Forensic engineering
• Forensic linguistics
• Forensic serology

References

Forensics Resources
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