Forensic Science

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Forensic Science
There is no doubt that criminal investigations have shifted a notch higher with the emergence of forensic science. Basically, forensic science refers to the application of scientific principles to civil as well as criminal laws with the results of this investigation providing sufficient knowledge that is used in the courts of law (Jolley and Powrie 12). Forensic scientists are involved in the collection, preservation, analysis, and interpretation of scientific evidence that could then be applied to the criminal and civil justice system.
The origin of forensic science can be traced back to the 19th Century and it is based on the exchange theory principle proposed by Edmond Locard in 1910 (Coppock 178). This theory proposes that whenever contact occurs, there is always an exchange of material implying that criminals often tend to leave behind traces that could lead to their identification. It is on the basis of this understanding that there exists a misconception that forensic science is “an exclusive tool of the prosecution” in the sense that it is mainly used for conviction purposes (DesPortes 6). The evolution of forensic science over the years has necessitated the need for standards to guide and inform practice. Furthermore, newer methods and approaches to certain procedures such as DNA analysis call for systems to determine the validity in order to ensure that the results are as accurate as possible (Butler 3).

The application of forensic science is widely employed in criminal cases but it is also useful in other crime types including those related to wildlife. Linacre argues that applying this concept to crimes that are usually investigated at a lower frequency will enhance the priority extended to all types of crimes (2). Despite the benefits offered by forensic science, it is fair to argue that the process itself is not infallible.
In conclusion, therefore, it is imperative to note that forensic science has revolutionized and the criminal justice system and made the process of crime investigation much easier. In spite of the minor flaws associated with the process, there is no doubt that forensic sciences eclipse most of the traditional approaches to criminal investigation. The existing challenges could be addressed with further research heading into the future.
Works Cited
Butler, J. M. (2015). U.S. initiatives to strengthen forensic science & international standards in forensic DNA. Forensic Science International: Genetics, 18, 4-20. doi:10.1016/j.fsigen.2015.06.008
Coppock, Craig A. Contrast: An Investigator’s Basic Reference Guide to Fingerprint Identification Concepts. Springfield: Charles C Thomas Publisher, LTD, 2007. Internet resource.Desportes, Betty Layne. “There Are No Sides in Forensic Science.” Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. 63, no. 1, 2018, pp. 6–8., doi:10.1111/1556-4029.13659.
Jolley, Jeanette, and John Powrie. Forensic Science: Standards-based Investigations. Huntington Beach, CA: Shell Education, 2008. Print.
Linacre, Adrian. Forensic Science in Wildlife Investigations. CRC Press, 2009.