Science - Forensics (Police practice and methodology) experts

Introduction

Experts in this field are forensics specialists who have focused their studies on the practices and methodology of the police. Forensics relates to the scientific processes used to investigate crime. In this case, it relates to the particular methods utilised by the police and the standards surrounding them. 

Forensic specialists are incredibly important to the investigative process of both law enforcement and private firms. These investigations can often provide crucial evidence in cases, but only if it can be collected in a proper fashion. If forensic evidence is collected improperly, it may be rendered inadmissible, meaning unusable in court. For example, in the case of digital forensics, the evidence must be obtained without compromising the integrity of the data. The method of collection must not disrupt the content of the device they are searching, and it must not leave any misleading traces of such activity, so that the evidence can be relied upon in court. Experts in police practice and methodology as it relates to forensics are able to identify when or if there have been any violations of best practice, and if so, how it may have affected the investigation.

Experts in this area can come from many professional backgrounds. Many will have worked (and were trained) specifically as forensics experts (usually in a specific specialisation such as ballistics, digital). Some will be current or former police, or have had experience in the law enforcement industry. The specific specialisation and background needed in your forensics, police practice and methodology expert will be determined by the matter for which it is required.

At the bottom of this profile are brief details of a number of the experts that Expert Experts represents. Call our office to discuss your requirements and to obtain a recommendation that suits your needs and budget.

Expertise in Action

Experts in forensics as it relates to police practice and methodology can be called upon to assist in cases involving obfuscated evidence, matters in which the investigation has been mishandled, insurance matters, and many more.

Sample Reports

For some fields of expertise we have some sample sections of de-identified reports. Please contact our office if you are interested in a sample.

Cost

The overall cost of expert opinion depends on the services required. Some of the key factors that affect the cost of advice include:

• The need for a view or inspection of a location
• The quantity of documentary material to be reviewed
• Whether there are reports of other experts to be reviewed and commented on in detail
• Whether there is a need for conferences with the expert either in person or by telephone/Skype

Relevant Articles Investigation - Forensics

A comprehensive source on the various methods police use to investigate different crimes.

Forensic science and intelligence Capability

Details of some of the forensic undertakings of the Australian Federal Police.

Standards and best practices for digital forensics

A very useful resource on standards and best practices in collection digital forensic evidence, although elements are applicable for forensics as a whole.

Relevant Cases De La Espriellavelasco v The Queen [2006] WASCA 31 (10 March 2006)

A case in which admissibility of forensic evidence was called into question.

RINALDI -v- THE STATE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA [2007] WASCA 53 (7 March 2007)

A case in which new expert evidence disputed conduct of forensic testing.

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