In this Distance Learning Forensic Science Level 3 course we will examine the fascinating subject of Forensic Science, which can be simply defined as the application of science to the law.

In criminal cases forensic scientists are often involved in the search for, and examination of, physical traces which may be useful for establishing or excluding an association between someone suspected of committing a crime and the scene of the crime or the victim. Such traces commonly include blood and any other body fluids, hairs, textile fibres from clothing etc., materials used in buildings such as paint and glass, footwear, tool and tyre marks, flammable substances used to start fires and so on.

Sometimes scientists will have to visit the scene itself to advise about likely sequence of events, any indicators as to who the perpetrator might be, and to join in the initial search for evidence. Other forensic scientists analyse suspected drugs of abuse, specimens from people thought to have taken them or to have been driving after drinking too much alcohol, or to have been poisoned. Yet others may specialise in firearms, explosives, or documents whose authenticity is in question.

In civil cases forensic scientists may become involved in some of the same sorts of examinations and analyses but directed to resolving any disputes as to, for example, the cause of a fire or a road accident for which damages are being claimed.

Forensic scientists can appear for either side – the prosecution or the defence in criminal matters, and plaintiff or defendant in civil ones. They tend to present their findings and opinions in written form either as formal statements of evidence or reports. Sometimes they are required to attend court to give their evidence in person. However, the evidence is produced and whether supporting the case for the prosecution or the defence, the evidence collected and presented by forensic scientists is subject to the rules of evidence and provisions of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984. For this reason the importance of the continuity of the chain of evidence will be stressed throughout this course..