Forensic Science

What is Forensic Science?

• Comes from the Latin "forensus", meaning "of the forum"
• Application of science to criminal and civil law
• Many science disciplines and degrees are used in this area

Where did it all begin?

• 3rd Century
• Yi Yu Ji (Collection of Criminal Cases)
• Woman accused of murdering husband
• Coroner used experiment with pigs

Forensic Science

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Crime Scene Investigator

• First person at the crime scene; collects evidence
• Could be a police officer

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Jurisprudence

• Lawyers
• Civil and Criminal Justice System

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Criminalistics

• Sometimes a synonym for Forensic Science
• Physical evidence such as blood, fibers, fingerprints

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Odontology

• Uses dental records to identify an individual

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Pathology/Biology

• Autopsies to determine cause of death
• Usually Medical Doctors

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Anthropology

• Search and recover remains
• Develop a profile
• Determine identity of unknown individuals

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Toxicology

• Chemistry
• Identifies the presence or absence of drugs or poisons

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Entomology

• Use insects and life cycles

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Botany

• Use plants and pollen to determine place/time of year

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Ballistics

• Examination of bullets to determine firearm used

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Engineering

• Use knowledge of structures and materials 
• Structural failures

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Document Examination

• Examine documents to determine age or authenticity
• Forgeries

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Biology

• DNA for identification
• Blood typing

Forensic Science Subdisciplines: Psychology

• Can develop a criminal profile 
• May determine the capacity of an individual to stand trial

Forensic Science