110 likes | 301 Vues
Forensic Science. An Introduction…. What is Forensic Science?. Forensic science is the application of science to law. The fundamental principle of forensics comes from Edmond Locard (early 1900s): “Whenever two objects come in contact, there is always a transfer of material.”.
E N D
Forensic Science An Introduction…
What is Forensic Science? • Forensic science is the application of science to law. • The fundamental principle of forensics comes from Edmond Locard (early 1900s): • “Whenever two objects come in contact, there is always a transfer of material.”
Forensics incorporates… • Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Geology • Ballistics • Odontology • Pathology • Entomology • Palynology • Polygraphy • Toxicology
Criminal Law vs Civil Law Civil Law • Deals w/ relationships between individuals • Ex. Contracts, wills, marriages, divorces, property transfers, products w/ hidden hazards. • Concerned with establishing blame. • Only requires a “preponderance of evidence” • Judge renders verdict • Penalties = fines and/or transfer of property.
Criminal Law vs Civil Law Criminal Law • Comes from medieval England, “King’s Peace” • Crimes that are offensive to society. • Three categories: • Infractions, Misdemeanors, and Felonies. • Jury renders verdict.
The Miranda Rights • Come from Miranda vs Arizona (1966) • Ernesto Miranda committed armed robbery, then kidnapped and raped a teenage girl. • Was never offered counsel or told he can remain silent. • Self-incriminated and found guilty. • Appealed and case went to Supreme Court. • Result was the Miranda Rights:
Infractions • Minor offenses • Almost always result in a fine or community service. • Examples: Most traffic violations, jaywalking, littering.
Misdemeanors • More serious crimes than infractions. • Up to 1 year of jail time possible. • Fines between $250 - $2,500 • Examples: shoplifting, trespassing, simple assault, prostitution, DWI (first offense).
Felonies • The most serious crimes. • Always a grand jury hearing first. • Fines of up to $100,000 per offense. • Five years to life (or death) in jail. • Examples: arson, rape, burglary, homicide, manslaughter, robbery, grand theft auto, etc.
The Death Penalty • 32 states have the death penalty as an option. • NJ abolished the death penalty December 17, 2007 (one of Gov. Corzine’s last actions as governor) • NJ has executed 361 people, but none since 1976. • There were 8 people on death row at the time it was abolished, including Jesse Timmendequas, whose crimes led to Megan’s Law. • Megan Kanka