Forensic scientists use science and technology to investigate crimes. Qualifications vary by specialty, but typically require a bachelor’s degree in biology or physical sciences for laboratory work, a medical degree for medical examiners, and computer science or engineering for digital forensics. Psychology and criminology degrees are also useful for forensic psychologists. Advances in science and […]
Forensic chemistry analyzes substances related to crimes or dangerous to others. Forensic chemists examine substances, including drugs, fibers, and blood, to determine their chemical compounds. They may also work in the field collecting evidence and use physics to examine blood patterns. Forensic chemists are trained in organic chemistry to identify DNA and run toxicology screens. […]
Forensic pathologists determine the cause of death in individuals who have died suddenly, unnaturally, or suspiciously. They perform autopsies and may testify in court. They require 13-15 years of post-high school education and training. A forensic pathologist is a physician who determines the cause of death in an individual who has died suddenly, suspiciously, unnaturally, […]
To become a forensic accountant, one must have a bachelor’s degree in a financial discipline, pass the Uniform CPA Exam, have at least two years of experience in general accounting work, and obtain additional certifications such as CFE and CFFA. Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes, resolve disputes, and serve as witnesses in court cases. They […]
Forensic anthropology studies skeletal remains to determine the identity and cause of death of the deceased. It differs from osteology as it’s used for legal cases. Forensic anthropologists can determine gender, age, height, race, and sometimes the date of death. They can also help determine factors contributing to a person’s death. Training can take over […]
Forensic mental health nurses evaluate and treat mentally ill individuals accused or convicted of crimes, as well as assess patients seeking medical attention in hospitals. They determine appropriate treatment and placement, and may need a nursing license and master’s degree in nursing. A forensic mental health nurse often has an important role in treating mentally […]
Forensic technician jobs can vary greatly, but mostly deal with chemistry, biology, fingerprinting, or computers. Those with an aptitude in one of these areas can do well in the field, with attention to detail being key. Chemistry and biology backgrounds are helpful for identifying substances and body fluids, while fingerprinting and computer jobs are also […]
Forensic psychiatrists offer expertise in legal cases involving mental health, different from forensic psychologists. They attend medical school and additional training in forensic psychiatry. They evaluate victims or defendants and make treatment recommendations. They can work for the defense or prosecution and may maintain a clinical practice. A forensic psychiatrist is a medical professional who […]
A computer forensic expert is a witness who testifies in court about data collected from computer systems. They work with attorneys to explain technical issues related to computer forensics and can work on civil or criminal cases. Their testimony can be crucial in establishing the legality and reliability of evidence obtained from computers. A computer […]
Forensic science uses science to answer legal questions, with various disciplines including biology, psychology, and chemistry. Professionals are trained to evaluate evidence and generate factual reports to help law enforcement. However, the field is not infallible, and some practices have been debunked. Forensic science is a broad discipline within the sciences and law enforcement community […]
Forensic science is any field of science applied to the law, with a forensic expert providing testimony to a court. They can be involved in any area of scientific research and collect physical evidence from crime scenes, analyze evidence in a laboratory, and use software or databases to match DNA or fingerprints. Both prosecution and […]
Forensic entomologists use their knowledge of insects to assist in criminal investigations and civil matters. They typically have a master’s or doctorate in science and gain related experience before working in the field. They can determine time of death and location by assessing insects on a body and may also work on cases involving contamination […]
Forensic anthropologists identify bodies and causes of death, often providing essential evidence in criminal cases. A Ph.D. is required, with undergraduate studies in biology or anthropology. Postdoctoral research and practical experience are also necessary for success in the field. Forensic anthropologists conduct detailed scientific investigations of human remains to identify bodies and explore possible causes […]
Forensic engineers investigate causes and damage of accidents. Education in engineering and construction laws, critical thinking, attention to detail, and communication skills are required. Jobs include building and electrical engineering, as well as computer forensics. When buildings collapse, automobile accidents, or a major electrical accident occurs, forensic engineers’ job is to research the causes and […]
Forensic science labs apply various sciences, with some more commonly used than others. Evidence types and disciplines are divided into four subject areas: life sciences, chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and model tests. Forensic labs have multiple divisions, including life sciences, breath testing, document analysis, drug chemistry, firearms, forensic identification, forensic imaging, photography, toxicology, and evidence trails. These […]
Forensic document examiners analyze various aspects of a document to determine its authenticity and origin, including handwriting, printing, inks, and papers. They look for clues of forgery and identify unique characteristics to determine the source. They prefer to work with original documents but can examine copies of high quality. They compare documents to find valid […]
Forensic document examination analyzes documentary evidence in legal investigations, including handwriting identification, paper and ink analysis, alteration detection, and indentations. It can aid investigations by determining authenticity, ownership, and preparation details of documents. Forensic document examination is the scientific analysis of documentary evidence in legal investigations. It tends to be applied most often in forgery […]
Forensic economists apply economic principles to legal situations, often consulted in civil actions involving economic damages. They can also play a role in criminal cases, assessing economic impact and testifying as expert witnesses. Personal ethics and knowledge of the legal system are required. A forensic economist is a person who applies economic principles to legal […]
Forensic photographers take pictures of legal evidence at crime scenes, hospitals, and forensic labs. They need to understand legal requirements and human anatomy, and use specialized equipment and techniques. They often present their findings in court and may have a degree in photography or related fields. A forensic photographer is the person who takes pictures […]
Forensic clinical psychologists assess the mental fitness of suspected criminals, testify in court, educate lawyers and judges, and provide treatment for individuals in the criminal justice system. Their work depends on their specialty, and they evaluate suspects by conducting meetings and observations to judge their mental aptitude. They may also provide treatment for individuals in […]
