Forensics Week 11 Flashcards
Why are people convicted
Because the evidence said they did it
What are the three types of evidence
Testimonial
Documents
Real Evidence
What case set a legal precedent for patterning
Brides in the bath
What is a witness
One who gives or is legally qualified to give evidence upon oath or affirmation in a court of justice or judicial inquiry
What is the role of a witness
to provide testimonial evidence to a tribunal
What are the two types of witnesses
Lay and Expert
What is a lay witness
Can be almost anyone who has evidence relevant to and admissable in a case. However they can only testify to the facts that are known to them. They can only state what was done, what was seen and what was said
What is an expert witness
They have sufficient and relevant skills in a recognised field that is being examined in the court. They do not need to be a leading person in the field.
What makes an expert witness special
They are permitted to offer opinions as to the meaning and implications of evidence
Forensic socio cultural anthropologists are experts in what
Assessment of land claims or the interpretations of Abo customs for lay jury
What is the role of the expert witness
They have a duty to assist the court impartially on matters relevant to the experts area of expertise. Their principle duty is to the court and not to any party.
What are the five rules of expert evidence
The expertise rule The common knowledge rule The area of expertise rule The ultimate issue rule The basis rule
What are the four test points for scientific evidence
Testing the evidence by scientific methods
Peer review of the theory of techniques and publication in the professional literature
Reliability of the results in terms of potential error and rate
Generally accepted as valid by the scientific community
Who gets the expert report`
The party who hired you gets it before the court and then the other party once the trial starts
