NCJ Number
102492
Date Published
1986
Length
1245 pages
Annotation
This volume provides an overview of the problems associated with the use of scientific evidence in criminal trials.
Abstract
The first seven chapters address issues that may arise with any type of scientific evidence: foundational requirements for admissibility, discovery, securing expert assistance, expert testimony, laboratory reports, and the chain of evidence custody. The remaining chapter discuss specific techniques for securing scientific evidence and legal problems associated with evidence obtained from these techniques. These techniques include polygraph and deception tests, psychiatric and psychological evidence, voice identification, neutron activation analysis, hypnosis in interrogation and interviews, and bite mark and dental identification. Other techniques discussed pertain to firearms, toolmarks, and related examinations; statistical evidence; fingerprints; genetic markers; speed measurement; pathology; and toxicology. Remaining techniques reviewed are document analysis, alcohol and drug testing, trace evidence, and instrumental analysis. Figures, chapter footnotes and bibliographies, table of court cases, and subject index.