Forensic Practice in Criminal Cases [Paperback]

'This is an excellent compendium with a wealth of useable information.' Alan Kershaw, Chief Executive of the Council for the Registration of Forensic Practitioners 'I congratulate the authors for producing such a helpful and readable book.' Dr Angela Gallop, President of the Forensic Science Society 'A great tool kit for cross-examiners and for judges to probe forensic evidence which is presented in court and invaluable for pre-court planning by practitioners.' London District Judge 'A helpful and readable book.' The Practical Lawyer, March 2006

Recent high profile cases have highlighted how forensic evidence can no longer be regarded as unassailable. As forensic practice and procedure becomes increasingly complex, lawyers, the police and the courts need to develop a better understanding of the evidence in order to effectively prosecute or defend criminal cases. This is a practical guide to understanding the uses, strengths and limitations of forensic practice. Advised by experts and written by lawyers in a modern, accessible style, Forensic Practice in Criminal Cases takes readers through the nature and uses of forensic evidence and explores specific areas of expertise. The book offers practical coverage of: - the types of forensic investigation which should be carried out - how investigations can go wrong - what further investigations need to be carried out - what documentary records of the investigation should exist - how to instruct a forensic scientist to provide or challenge scientific evidence. This is the only work dedicated to forensic practice within the context of criminal law. It will be welcomed by criminal lawyers, judges, magistrates, students, police officers and anyone interested in the criminal justice system.

Lynne Townley is a barrister practising criminal law. She has been a law reporter in the Criminal Division of the Court of Appeal for the All England Law Reports and is the author of Blackstone's Book of Moots (1996). Roger Ede is a solicitor, a member of the Law Society's Representation and Law Reform Directorate, and the Council for the Registration of Forensic Practitioners. He also sits as a Deputy District Judge (magistrates' court) and is author of Criminal Defence (Law Society, 2002) and Active Defence (Law Society, 2000).