Forensic Science and Law: Investigative Applications in Criminal, Civil and Family Justice

by Cyril H. Wecht (Editor), John T. Rago (Editor)

Overview

Forensic science has undergone dramatic progress in recent years, including in the areas of DNA collection and analysis and the reconstruction of crime scenes. However, too few professionals are equipped with the knowledge necessary to fully apply the potential of science in civil, criminal, and family legal matters.

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Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781040081266
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	12/22/2005
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	728
File size:	5 MB

About the Author

Cyril H. Wecht, John T. Rago

Table of Contents

PART I: OVERVIEW. Ancient Tradition The Relationship of Science and Law. Logic in Forensic Science. Forensic Science and Law Revealing Truth and Freedom in a Single Light.
PART II: FOUNDATIONS OF LAW. Criminal Law and Procedure. Forensic Science and the Family. The Civil Justice System. Discovery in Civil Cases. Contract Law Forensic Agreements. Fundamental Principles of Tort Law. Product Liability. Forensic Medicine and Medical Negligence Initial Case Investigation Applications. Construction Law. PART III: BRIDGING THE FOUNDATIONS. Experts and the Admissibility of Evidence Concerning Scientific, Technical, and Other Specialized Areas of Knowledge. PART IV: FOUNDATIONS OF FORENSIC SCIENCE. Section A: Evidence and the Physical Sciences. A Critical Analysis of Selected Features of Fingerprinting. Trace Evidence Examination. Firearm and Toolmark Identification. The Investigation of Fire and Explosions.
Questioned Document Examination. Section B: Evidence and the Biological Sciences. Forensic Pathology. Forensic Toxicology. Serology. DNA Analysis. The Science of Forensic Entomology. Forensic Odontology. Forensic Anthropology.
Section C: Evidence and the Social and Applied Sciences An Overview. Behavioral Science and the Law. Digital Forensics. Forensic Linguistics, Authorship Attribution, and Admissibility. Forensic Accounting. Forensic Economics in Instances of Wrongful Death and Injury. Forensic Engineering and Science. PART V: TOPICS IN THE PRACTICE OF FORENSIC SCIENCE. Crime Scene Management. The Roles of Public Attorneys in the Practice of Forensic Science. Forensic and Legal Nursing. Forensic Science and Public Health The Role of Enabling Statutes, Reporting Obligations, and Privacy Laws. Forensic Science and Public Health The Role of Forensic Epidemiology. Lawyers, Ethics, and the Forensic Professional.