How Forensic Evidence Can Make or Break a Criminal Case

August 26, 2024

Prosecutors use forensic evidence in criminal cases to establish their burden of proof. The presence or absence of forensic evidence can significantly impact the outcome of a criminal case. Forensic evidence is derived from scientific methods and techniques and can substantiate allegations or acquit the accused.

This article will explore how forensic evidence can make or break a criminal case. We will also highlight its importance, how it is collected, and real-world implications.

What is Forensic Evidence?

Forensic evidence is the information and materials collected during a criminal investigation that is analyzed using scientific methods to help establish facts about a crime. This type of evidence is used to support the investigation and legal proceedings. Forensic evidence is distinguished by its basis in scientific analysis, which lends it an objective quality, in contrast to more subjective forms of evidence like eyewitness testimony.

Types of Forensic Evidence the Prosecution May Use to Meet Their Burden of Proof

Prosecutors must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the accused did commit the crime they are charged with. This is referred to as the burden of proof. The burden of proof ensures that the accused is not unjustly convicted and that the principles of justice are upheld.

Many types of forensic evidence can be used in a criminal case, and the prosecution may introduce some types of forensic evidence during a trial.

DNA evidence is one of the most potent forms of forensic evidence. DNA profiling can match biological samples (such as blood, hair, or saliva) from a crime scene to a specific individual with high precision. It can both identify perpetrators and exclude innocent individuals.
Fingerprint analysis examines any prints found at the crime scene. Because fingerprints are unique to each individual, prints found at a crime scene can be matched to suspects or searched against databases to identify potential matches.
Ballistics is the study of firearms and ammunition. Ballistic analysis can link bullets and shell casings to specific weapons, providing crucial information about the type of firearm used in a crime and potentially identifying the shooter.
Bloodstain pattern analysis examines the shapes, sizes, and distribution of bloodstains to infer details about the events that caused them. This can include the position and movements of the victim and assailant during the crime.
Toxicology reports provide the results of the analysis of bodily fluids and tissues to detect the presence of drugs, alcohol, poisons, or other substances. This type of evidence can be essential in cases involving overdoses, poisoning, or impaired driving.
Digital forensics is the investigation of digital devices and data. This includes recovering deleted files, analyzing email and messaging history, and examining internet usage to uncover evidence related to a crime.
Trace evidence refers to small materials transferred from one person or object to another during a crime. This can include fibers, hair, soil, gunshot residue, and more, which can link a suspect to a crime scene or victim.
Forensic odontology is the study of dental evidence, often used to identify remains or match bite marks to suspects.

How the Defense Team Can Challenge Forensic Evidence

While the prosecution introduces forensic evidence in a case, the defense attorney often utilizes different strategies to challenge its admissibility in court. Challenging forensic evidence is critical to defending a client, especially when it is central to the prosecution’s case. Here are just a few ways the defense can challenge forensic evidence.

Questioning the Collection of Evidence — The defense can challenge the integrity of forensic evidence by asking the chain of custody. The chain of custody is how the evidence was collected, stored, and transferred from the crime scene to the lab and, ultimately, to the courtroom. Breaks in the chain of custody can doubt its reliability and authenticity.
Cross-Examining Expert Witnesses — When cross-examining expert witnesses, your defense attorney can scrutinize the witnesses for the prosecution to expose any weaknesses in their testimony. By asking the right questions, the defense can undermine the credibility of these witnesses.
Using Independent Witnesses—The defense can call expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. These experts can offer an alternative interpretation of the evidence and point out potential inconsistencies.
Educating the Jury — Defense attorneys can help the jury understand forensic evidence’s limitations and potential flaws through clear, concise explanations during cross-examinations and closing arguments. They can also use charts or diagrams to illustrate the reliability and validity of forensic methods.

Widder Law, For Reliable, Expert Legal Representation for Your Criminal Case

Forensic evidence is a powerful tool in the criminal justice system. Its ability to provide objective, scientific insights makes it invaluable in pursuing justice. However, its effectiveness depends on meticulous collection, preservation, and analysis. As forensic technology advances, its role in criminal cases will undoubtedly become even more significant, helping to ensure that the guilty are convicted and the innocent are exonerated.

At Widder Law, our legal team has years of trial experience focusing on criminal defense. We have represented hundreds of clients charged with offenses ranging from DUI to murder. With your case, we won’t let you go unheard. We will advocate for you and fight for your rights during every stage of the process, pursuing the best possible outcome on your behalf.