Genesis and Current State of the Forensic Prediction Theory

Abstract

Predictive activities in the field of forensic science are one of the most relevant practice-oriented areas of research within the framework of forensic science. Predicting development trends of any subject, process, and system based on existing information about them and the achieved level of science allows us to obtain advanced knowledge that is relevant given the high speed of emergence, processing and use of information in modern society. The digitalization process causes the emergence of new objects and new tasks of expert research, changes in their methods and methodology, which significantly affects the formation and development of new types of forensic examinations. The theory of forensic forecasting should become the foundation for scientifically based forecasts in this area. The work scrutinizes the genesis of this theory, its close connection with scientific forecasting in other sciences of the criminal legal cycle. Particular attention is given to its connection with forensic forecasting. The paper states the relatively low level of development of the theory of forensic forecasting, and identifies factors that complicate forecasting in the field of forensic activity. The relevance of further developments in this area is noted. It is indicated that the timely organization of methodological developments, updating of professional and educational requirements for experts and other practically significant activities require theoretical predictive information for their planning.