Law for Forensic Scientists

Law for Forensic Scientists fills a significant gap by providing an accessible and comprehensive textbook for forensic science students, practitioners, and attorneys working with forensic evidence. While numerous books cover criminal law, criminal procedure, and expert testimony separately – often tailored for law students and criminal defense attorneys – this book uniquely integrates these key areas for forensic scientists.

Designed to build a broad understanding of the legal landscape, this book covers essential topics such as criminal offenses, criminal procedures, Fourth Amendment search and seizure law, forensic evidence collection, the treatment of science in Anglo-American jurisprudence, and expert testimony. Each chapter presents content in a structured and digestible format, featuring case studies, key terms, thought-provoking questions, chapter summaries, and references for further reading. Significant case law is incorporated throughout that illustrate real-world applications. To support both students and instructors, this book includes a full subject, case, and statutory index, as well as a glossary for quick reference. Additionally, online instructor resources provide supplementary materials, including a proposed syllabus and test questions, making it a valuable resource for forensic science and legal studies courses.

Law for Forensic Scientists is an accessible textbook appropriate for students in forensic science programs taking a course on criminal law.