Criminalistics, the exact science part of the forensic sciences, focuses on examinations in criminal cases, the interpretation of the observations and the role of the forensic expert and his reporting in criminal law. Forensic science originated around the turn of the twentieth century and has long been the exclusive domain of the police. The methodological foundations of criminalistics have long been very weak, but in recent years they have developed to a great extent. In order to evaluate the evidence generated by forensic analyses, an understanding of its fundamentals is key. Important questions that come up during the course: What can criminalistics contribute in criminal justice proceedings? How should one communicate forensic evidence to professionals in the criminal justice system (investigators, prosecutors, judges, etc.)? How can forensic analyses be criticized from a scientific standpoint? These questions are discussed on the basis of concrete cases. In addition, some of the course is devoted to media attention and public interest in forensic science. For example, the widespread misunderstanding about what is possible in forensic science is considered, as well as the resulting disappointment when the practice proves to be more complicated than the fiction of television shows like CSI.
Key words: principles of forensic science; interpretation of evidence; science and the law; logical framework; evidential value; case assessment and interpretation; contextual information; areas of expertise; role of expert in judicial system.
Increase your awareness of the problems that arise at the interfaces of science, the law, law enforcement, and the general public.
Required preparation by students: study assigned materials from the reader.
Required preparation by students: response to written questions, oral presentation.
The required reading (literature) for the course, the subjects taught in the lectures, the seminars and all other instructions which are part of the course.