It is important for forensic scientists to have a thorough understanding of the legal and ethical underpinnings for their work. These are important in establishing and maintaining a responsible and reputable forensic science service. The role that a forensic scientist plays in the litigation process will be discussed. Students will learn the appropriate guidelines for professionalism and conduct in expert witnessing. Students will also be exposed to both the general principles that underlie the criminal and constitutional law as well as to some specific crimes recognised by the criminal law. Legal rules regarding the search and seizure of physical evidence, standards of reliability and relevance of scientific evidence in court, the scientific interpretations and analysis of physical evidence and the development and application of professional codes of ethics will also be discussed. Several case studies will be used.
- Lecturer: Norma McFarlane-Anderson