The role of forensic science in modern criminal justice systems

Forensic Science in the 21st Century of Criminal Justice Forensic Science

Forensic science in the 21st century

The role of forensic science in the 21st century has assumed an increasing importance for the criminal justice system. The use of the various scientific methods and procedures in modern forensics has been used extensively in the solving of crimes as well as in court process and procedures. This paper will highlight some of the main aspects of contemporary forensics and how it contributes to crime fighting in terms of the process of criminal justice.

Forensics can generally be defined as the application of science to law (A Career In Forensic Science: What is Forensic Science?). In essence this refers to the process of investigation, gathering and analyzing evidence in order to prove that a crime has in fact occurred and to discover the instigator of the crime. It is important to realize that forensics is a complex and varied discipline with many areas of expertise. Forensics makes use of the knowledge from disciplines such as biology, chemistry, analytical science and mathematics, among others (What is Forensics?). Forensic scientists often specialize in one area of investigation -- for example, drug crime investigations and data analysis.

2. The importance of modern forensic science

One of the main reasons given for the importance of this disciple is the often crucial role that it plays in the identification of crime and criminals. A useful description of forensics that explains something of its importance is provided by the FBI. In order for crimes to be successfully investigated and prosecuted in the legal system, a central requirement is the "… the collection, preservation, and forensic analysis of evidence" (Handbook of Forensic Services). Forensic analysis is therefore in many cases " crucial to determinations of guilt or innocence" (Handbook of Forensic Services). In other words, forensics is an essential part of criminal investigation and procedure. This view of forensic also applies to its role in the justice system. There are instances where the value of forensics and forensic investigations has been proven to be necessary and many crimes would not have been solved without the intervention of forensic science.

An extremely important aspect of forensics is that it makes use of the latest technologies and scientific discoveries in the investigation of crime. For instance, through DNA technology and analysis of DNA sequences, living organisms can be identified at the crime scene. Therefore, the ability to determine facts in a case from very small particles of matter has proven to be of invaluable assistance in criminal investigation and procedure; for example, forensic analysis has been used successfully in many paternity cases.

4. Conclusion

The field of forensic is extensive and wide-ranging and draws on the findings from many disciplines. The fact that forensic science can make use of knowledge and insight from fields as diverse as physics, chemistry and even archaeology makes it an invaluable tool in the fight against crime, as well as in investigation and analysis that can better facilitate the legal process. Modern forensics use of technologies such as DNA analysis have not only been able to solve many crimes that would have been impossible to close only a few years ago, but newer technologies are also being added to the range of forensic tool in the assistance of the laws.