Chapter 19 - Forensic Examination Reports

Abstract

This chapter discusses the alleviation of the epidemic of substandard reporting that plagues the forensic community. A forensic examination report is a detailed description of the evidence and materials examined which includes examinations performed, the methods used, the results achieved, and any conclusions that may subsequently be derived. Most forensic examination reports do not explain how results were achieved or interpretations rendered, and tend to leave readers with a false sense of overconfidence regarding any findings that are presented. In the performance of casework, forensic scientists are bound to accept the law and any related rulings of the court in their approach, analyses, and interpretations. All scientific reports must be comprehensive with regard to examinations performed, methods employed, findings achieved, and conclusions rendered in context. It is suggested that a written forensic examination report should include information such as name of authors and supervisors, date of examinations, and date of the final report.