Abstract
The use of forensic evidence is a relatively new initiative, gaining momentum and popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, for its role in addressing wrongful convictions. Yet, with advancements still being achieved, mistakes have been uncovered. In the criminal legal system, inaccurate evidence and/or information can be a barrier for seeking justice. Collectively, estimates suggest forensic errors occur in anywhere between 46-100% of forensic cases, with varying errors occurring based on the type of evidence (e.g., forensic pathology vs. seized drug analysis). As such, this literature review outlines the unreliable aspects of forensic evidence, the misinterpretation of such findings, and individual influences increasing these issues. This poster further explores the impacts of misleading and inaccurate forensic evidence while ending with policy recommendations and reform. Additionally, we highlight the work of the Innocence Project as a reform initiative heavily relying on the accuracy of forensic evidence.
Faculty Advisor
April Terry
Department/Program
Criminal Justice
Submission Type
in-person poster
Date
3-19-2025
Rights
Copyright the Author(s)
Recommended Citation
Winter, Kelsie L. and Terry, April
(2025)
"Forensic Evidence and its Effect on the Criminal Legal System,"
SACAD: Scholarly Activities: Vol. 2025, Article 104.
Available at:
https://scholars.fhsu.edu/sacad/vol2025/iss2025/104
Included in
Criminology Commons, Criminology and Criminal Justice Commons, Forensic Science and Technology Commons, Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Commons
