The prosecutor and the forensic scientist
Flannery, T.A.
Journal - Association of Official Analytical Chemists 55(4): 860-865
1972
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-5756 PMID: 5056232 Document Number: 55774
In recent years, the role of the forensic scientist has become a matter of critical importance in filling the evidence void created by decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court. This role is reviewed from the viewpoint of the prosecutor, since it is in court, as an expert witness, that the forensic scientist must prove his worth. Those areas which are considered vitally important, such as adequate preparation and courtroom demeanor, are discussed. The criminal justice system must make full use of advanced scientific methods in the courtroom. The need for more dialogue between the forensic scientist and the prosecutor to develop criteria on when and how to introduce these methods is reviewed.