NCJ Number
89880
Date Published
1981
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This textbook article describes the materials used by forensic toxicologists in private practice, as well as their role as expert witnesses.
Abstract
The toxicologist practicing privately may be self-employed, with or without access to a laboratory, or a part-time consultant with a full-time job in a government laboratory. In investigating cases involving living subjects (usually drunk driving cases), the toxicologist uses an evidence kit and report form. Standard evidence and collection techniques for such cases are explained, and sample report forms are included. Private toxicology experts have to be careful to emphasize their impartiality in court because they testify frequently and are paid for their time. Three references and pictures of evidence collection materials for biological fluids are supplied.