Use of forensics in the court system - Essay Example

Use of Forensic Science in the Courts Introduction Forensic science entails the application of science to solve legal questions. This technique incorporates techniques such DNA analysis, ballistics and fingerprint analysis. Over the years, forensic science gained popularity in trials and criminal investigations. Currently, forensic science applications in court systems occur in diverse guises. Scientific equipments used in gathering evidence for the courts include breathalyzers. Appropriate and ethical application of forensic science enhance the effectiveness in criminal justice, and powerful in seeking justice and truth.

Scientists also act as professional witnesses involved in the presentation of evidence. In courts, the magnitude of the crime determines the frequency of usage of science in the court systems. Scientific applications are increasingly used in common crimes including car theft and burglary. With the availability of DNA evidence, the uncovering rate goes up by 30 percent (Desportes, 2008). Forensic discipline can successfully convict criminals, and also pardon innocent people. The Forensic Science Service meets the forensic needs of precise police investigations.

The agency dealt with thousands of cases in 2005, and the agency staffs appeared as expert witnesses in courts cases in over 2,000 cases. These experts include individuals such as psychologists, medical doctors or welfare professional (Starling, 2007). Scientific techniques used in forensic science do not need to pass formal tests for the admissibility of evidence derived from it in the courts; that task belongs to the judges. Courts have the discretion of using vast and latest technological and scientific knowledge in their activities.

Forensic science successfully convicts criminals or pardon innocent people (Desportes, 2008). ConclusionForensic science does not lack it flaws, and its applicability in criminal justice needs reforms. Reforms are necessary to ensure accurate and fair criminal system. Reforms are necessary to improve objectivity, independence and reliability of forensic study. Common perceptions concerning forensic analysis as an objective and precise science obscures the fact that forensic science involves flexible interpretations by individual, professional analysts.

However, with implementation of reforms, forensic science is a valuable tool that for the court justice system in its endeavor of seeking justice and fairness.ReferenceDesportes, B. (2008). Improving The Practice And Use Of Forensic Science: A Policy Review. The Justice Project. Page 1-7.Starling, B. (2007). Science in Court. Postnote. Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology. Page 1-4.