Forensic Science and the LawForensic Science and the Law

This text provides readers with practical insights into many of the key areas of forensic science encountered in criminal and traffic cases. Drawing on her first-hand experience as a scientist, consultant and expert witness, author Dr Anna Sandiford explains different aspects of forensic science in a nontechnical way which is designed to give the non-scientist the tools to be able to understand the most common forensic science issues raised during the investigation and litigation stages of criminal and traffic proceedings. The book discusses the expert witness, the writing and interpretation of expert reports. It describes the forensic investigation, scene examination and crash investigation and analysis processes. Valuable guidance is also provided on major areas of forensic science including, drugs, alcohol and toxicology, document examination, image and audio analysis, fingerprints and other marks, fires and explosions, DNA, biology and bloodstain pattern analysis, and psychology and psychiatry.