Ethics & Bias Flashcards
What are 3 major ethics violations in forensic science?
1) Lying in court/reports
2) Dry labbing
3) Changing opinions to fit certain side’s
Define dry labbing.
Doing no work/testing and making assumptions on what a substance/item could be
Give an example of dry labbing.
“This substance looks like meth, so I’m just gonna say it is.”
Properly representing credentials includes being truthful about your…
Degree, licensures, and employment history
Too much scientific jargon is unfair to the jury because…
It can be confusing or deceiving to the layperson
You should elaborate your results and conclusions to give additional context because…
Speaking too little can be just as bad as speaking too much (i.e. it can be confusing or look like you’re hiding something)
Define bias.
Prejudice in favor of one thing or against another, usually unfair
Be careful when listening to outside case information because it can…
Sway your opinion
Your sense of pride in forensic sciences comes from doing your job…
Properly, correctly, etc.
What is the difference between ethics and bias?
Ethics involves knowingly lying or altering information while bias is more subtle
What list did Brady v. Maryland (1965) form?
The Brady List
What is the Brady List?
A blacklisting of those caught lying in court
