Witnesses

Question 0

What are the methods for testing evidence in and out of court?

Answer 0

Testing evidence:
Is it an expert matter?
Is an expert an expert?
Is the evidence sound and based on expert knowledge?

Approaches:
Cross examination
Accreditation of expert
Accreditation of laboratory
Court appoints individual to review evidence
Jury test the evidence

Question 1

What are the 5 key requirements for forensic service providers?

Answer 1

Comply with codes of conduct and practice set by FSR

Ensure quality standards and assurance processes are applied in UKAS accredited laboratories

Provide clear communication an interpretations

Engage in the SFR process

Be aware of expert witness obligations

Question 2

Who are the different stakeholders in forensic science?

Answer 2

Anyone who has an interest in forensic scince:
Forensic service providers
Victims (want justice)
Accused (want to be cleared)
Police (want it doing quick and cheap as possible)
CPS (want witnesses to be credible and evidence to be able to stand up in court)
Courts ( want experts to be able to put their evidence across without bias to a jury)

Question 3

What are the conflicts between the requirements of the stakeholders in forensic science

Answer 3

Cost and speed mainly

Courts want sound experts- costs money to train

Victims want fast justice - costs money to fast track cases

Police want live-time forensics: costs money and time to invest in research into it.