Expert witness testimony essay

Criminal Evidence: An Introduction (3rded.). Worrall, John L., Hemmens, Craig, & Nored, Lisa S., (2018)

Page 248-250

There are several categories of expert witness testimony listed in your book from pages 248 – 250. Please answer the following questions.

Discuss: a) handwriting , b) fingerprints, c) ballistics (in your book), and also discuss d) hair analysis and d) DNA evidence. For each category briefly discuss the following: 1) the goal for this testimony and the basis for the field – in other words, what is it intended to show or prove, and how is that accomplished?; 2) the qualifications and training usually required to be an “expert witness” in this field; 3) the level of certainty associated with each category; and 4) any controversies or “issues” with the science involved (if any). (The book will provide a start with three of the five categories but you will need to do some outside research as well).

This assignment is intended to allow you to show your competence and understanding of the course materials as we progress through the semester. These responses are to be 3-4 pages in length, with a thorough but succinct answer to the posed research. You are also required to research and cite material from at least two outside sources.