The question "what is science" has been one of the most vigorously contested legal questions as to what is legally acceptable scientific foundation for the submission of expert opinion in a wide variety of cases, especially in products liability cases. The answer usually lies in the outcomes of past cases as well as objective scientific literature. But how do we relate past decisions to biotechnology, bioinformatics, in-silico biology, genome mapping, and other new scientific developments? And just how valid are peer-reviewed studies when they are performed in house or funded by companies...

One of the greatest challenges encountered by those in the forensic sciences is anticipating what the state and federal courts will or will not allow as valid physical evidence. With this in mind, the author of Forensic Evidence: Science and the Criminal Law, Second Edition analyzes and explains the judicial system s response to the applicability of forensic science in the investigation, prosecution, and defense of criminal activity.

Each chapter of this comprehensive yet accessible resource provides an overview and analysis of the scientific and legal aspects of a...