User:Manson B/Forensic science
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Forensic science, also known as criminalistics,[1] is the application of science principles and methods to support legal decision-making in matters of criminal and civil law.
During criminal investigation in particular, it is governed by the legal standards of admissible evidence and criminal procedure. It is a broad field utilizing numerous practices such as the analysis of DNA, fingerprints, bloodstain patterns, firearms, ballistics, toxicology, and fire debris analysis.[2]
Forensic scientists collect, preserve, and analyze evidence during the course of an investigation. While some forensic scientists travel to the scene of the crime to collect the evidence themselves, others occupy a laboratory role, performing analysis on objects brought to them by other individuals.[3] Others are involved in analysis of financial, banking, or other numerical data for use in financial crime investigation, and can be employed as consultants from private firms, academia, or as government employees.
The discipline of Forensic Science involves the systematic application of scientific principles and methodologies to the legal system. Forensic scientists play a crucial role in collecting and analyzing physical evidence, subsequently presenting their findings in court. In the context of Forensic Parasitology, these scientists harness the unique attributes of parasites to address aspects of criminal investigations[4]
In addition to their laboratory role, forensic scientists testify as expert witnesses in both criminal and civil cases and can work for either the prosecution or the defense. While any field could technically be forensic, certain sections have developed over time to encompass the majority of forensically related cases.[5]