Forensic science often plays a key role in both criminal and civil court cases. Forensic experts can be called as witnesses on a range of different subjects. Their evidence is often technical and specialised, and often compelling. If you have a court matter where the other party has called or adduced forensic expert evidence, it is important that you have that evidence, independently assessed by your own expert.

 

Who is a “Forensic Consultant”?

A forensic consultant is a person or team of people with relevant qualifications and experience in a particular forensic discipline. They often have experience in giving evidence in court. A good expert will be objective, impartial and not display any bias to the party they are representing.

 

The Different Types of Forensic Analysis

There are many different types of forensic disciplines. They include:

 

  • Fingerprinting: is a technique that assists with the identification of a person who may have touched an item of interest
  • DNA: is a biological method commonly used to identify suspects or offenders to a crime
  • Blood pattern analysis: this involves the study of blood patterns at a crime scene to try and reconstruct what happened
  • Engineering: relates to the study of materials, structures and products that have not performed their required function as intended, which has resulted in injury, damages to property or economic loss.
  • Odontology is used to study bite marks and dental remains – and is often used at autopsies, identifying dental impressions and studying x-rays. This type of forensic consultancy is often used in missing persons cases.
  • Anthroplogy is about anatomical sciences and how they are applied to the law. Scientists in this field often study skeletal remains to assist law enforcement with their investigations. They’re also able to interpret types of trauma that may have occurred during when the crime took place.
  • Entomology studies how arthropods (insects) interact with human remains by applying insect science and biological science methods to determine different types of drugs and poisons, as well as the location of where an incident took place.
  • Toxicology pertains to the scientific understanding of chemicals or situations on people or animals, as well as the surrounding environment. They can determine the involvement of drugs relating to death and are crucial in differentiating between a murder and an overdose, for example.

 

 

Forensic Pathways Can Help

 Have you found yourself in a situation where a forensic consultant can help provide the proof needed to help you win a criminal or civil case?

Forensic Pathways offer thorough and critical reviews of cases and case files. We will assess and conduct any necessary tests to aid your cause by visiting crime scenes, carry out re-constructions, take further samples and have them independently analysed.

Dr Clint Hampson has a PhD in Forensic Science. He was responsible for identifying the forensic issues involved in the wrongful conviction of Scott Austic, a homicide case here in Western Australia.

Forensic Pathways will give you a high calibre of expertise and true focus to your needs as an impartial and independent forensic consultancy service. Find out more or contact us on (08) 6371 8810 to speak to one of our forensic experts.