Quick Facts About Forensic Science
The legal system often depends on forensic science to help make a determination of guilt or innocence in both civil and criminal court cases. The American Academy of Forensic Science states that any "science used for the purposes of the law is a forensic science."
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Forensic Science History
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As early as the eighth century, the Chinese were using fingerprints to determine the identity of sculptures and documents. It wasn't until the mid-1800s that the study of forensics started to take shape, as microscopes, basic laboratory evidence-testing and fingerprint analysis arrived on the scene.
Origin of the Word "Forensics"
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Forensics is derived from the Latin word "forensis," which had to do with public forums where people gathered to discuss, argue or debate topics of interest or concern.
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Crime-Scene Investigations
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Much of a forensic scientist's time is spent gathering and studying evidence. Her findings may benefit either the prosecution or the defense in a criminal or civil court case. These types of forensic scientists usually work in a laboratory, but may have to visit more dangerous venues while gathering evidence.
Types of Forensic Scientists
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Forensic science is a broad field that encompasses many types of forensic scientists. Forensic anthropologists study bones; forensic pathologists examine bodies and look for clues while performing autopsies; and forensic psychologists and psychiatrists investigate the criminal mind and assist in profiling.
Just the Facts
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The duty of a forensic scientist is to determine the truth about the evidence and present those findings--usually in court--in a clear, precise and factual manner.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of umjanedoan
