1. Forensics and the Scientific Method

2. Scientific Method:
Observe a problem or questioned evidence and collect objective data.
Consider a hypothesis based on the observation - this requires inductive reasoning, experience, and imagination
Test to support or refute the hypothesis.
Use deductive reasoning to determine the significance of the evidence

3. 5. Evaluate and verify all evidence - this step
is critical, a person’s life may depend on it.
Consider standardization
reproducibility
validity
reliability
accuracy

4. The forensic scientist must:
Develop a theory or opinion that is able to stand up to scientific and legal scrutiny.

5. The Locard Principle: Whenever two objects come into contact,
there is always a transfer of material.
The methods of detection may not be sensitive enough to demonstrate this.
The decay rate may be so rapid that all evidence of the transfer has vanished.