Forensic science, often referred to as
criminalistics, involves the use of scientific
principles to aid in both criminal and civil legal matters. Within the
context of criminal investigations, it adheres to
strict legal guidelines regarding the acceptability of evidence
and the procedures governing criminal cases. This multifaceted
discipline encompasses a wide range of practices ,
including the examination of DNA, fingerprints, bloodstain patterns,
firearms, ballistics, toxicology, and the analysis of fire debris.
Forensic scientists are responsible for gathering,
safeguarding, and meticulously analyzing scientific evidence as part of
an investigation. Their roles vary: while some venture to the
crime scene to gather evidence directly, others work in a laboratory
setting, conducting analyses on items delivered by external parties.
Additionally, some forensic scientists specialize in searching
financial, banking, or numerical data for financial crime
investigations, often serving as consultants in the private
sector, academia, or within government agencies.
Aside from their duties within the laboratory, forensic scientists can
also serve as expert witnesses in criminal and civil cases, and
they may be employed by either the prosecution or the
defense. While the concept of forensics can be applied
to a wide range of fields, certain specialized areas
have evolved over time to address the majority of cases related
to forensics.