Forensics: Fundamentals, Failures and Future

As a well-trained trial attorney can show you, anyone is an expert if you narrow the scope of their 'expertise' enough... As a practitioner, forensics are important only to the extent that they help or hinder my analysis or theory of the case… Forensics are the replacement for the eye-witness's identification and knowledge… Forensic findings can be your best friend in a trial or your worst enemy… The most important lesson I can offer, whether you are a new prosecutor, new defense attorney, or an old attorney contending with a new science, is ASK the scientist every question that comes to mind without fear, shame, or embarrassment… Ask again and again if you still don't understand. Above is a brief compilation of insights garnered from years of trial experience of the author. Intended for those looking to begin the process of understanding modern forensics application in the courtroom, this paper serves as not only a primer, but more importantly, a practical discussion of the attorney's understanding of the use and limitations in this dynamic scientific arena.