Scientific Evidence in Civil and Criminal Cases (University Casebook Series)

This text is the seventh edition of an authoritative work that has defined and shaped the legal analysis of scientific evidence for four decades. A single source and definitive reference for law students, scholars, practicing attorneys, and judges, it covers the critical topics in the law and the scientific disciplines most frequently encountered in the courtroom. It explains established capabilities and existing limitations of forensic science methodologies, as well as controversial and emerging issues in both the forensic science community and the legal system. For each discipline, the standards and qualifications of experts are presented along with evidentiary issues and admissibility challenges.

This practical resource begins with an overview of admissibility standards for scientific evidence and expert testimony and considerations for selecting and working with experts. It covers the legal principles relevant to demonstrative exhibits used by expert witnesses in connection with scientific evidence. Drawing upon extensive case references and current research articles, the book includes such topics and disciplines as fingerprint evidence, firearm and toolmark evidence, forensic document examination, fire scene and explosives investigation, trace evidence, vehicle investigations, digital forensics, forensic anthropology, forensic odontology, forensic pathology, forensic toxicology, forensic biology and DNA analysis, controlled substances analysis, and forensic psychiatry and psychology.