Scientific Evidence in Civil and Criminal Cases

Scientific Evidence in Civil and Criminal Cases is the sixth edition of an authoritative work that has defined and shaped scientific evidence for four decades. The single source, definitive reference for scholars, practicing attorneys, and judges; it covers both the critical topics in the law and the scientific disciplines most frequently encountered in the courtroom. Established capabilities and existing limitations of forensic science methodologies are explained, and controversial and emerging issues in both the forensic science community and the legal system are discussed. For each discipline, the standards and qualifications of experts are presented along with the current status of admissibility and applicable evidentiary law. This practical working resource begins with a section on the evolving status of forensic science and evidentiary law. Effective demonstrative evidence for presenting scientific evidence is also discussed. Drawing upon extensive case references and current research articles, the book includes such topics and disciplines as forensic accounting, digital forensics, document examination, firearms and toolmarks, fires and explosives, fingerprints, trace evidence, pathology, anthropology, odontology, serology and toxicology, DNA, voice recognition, accident and crime scene reconstruction, drugs and alcohol, and speeding, and concludes with a comprehensive set of chapters on behavioral science and mental status evidence.