Everyone has heard of forensic science, but how many people actually know and really understand what this particular field of science truly entails? Forensic science is the process of using the different elements and methods of science to help solve crimes. Forensic science proves the validity of a suspected crime through a variety of processes including, but not limited to, examining physical evidence such as fingerprints, blood, DNA, correct interpretation of data and administration of tests, and the creation of accurate reports.
Forensic scientists are one of the most valuable members of an investigation team. Prosecutors and members of law enforcement rely upon forensic scientists to help convict criminals and win trials. Forensic scientists falls into 3 major categories: pathologists, scientists, and associated scientists. These 3 major categories can then be broken down into a variety of subcategories such as botany, pathology, podiatry, geology, DNA analysis, linguistics, toxicology, and many more.
There are a variety of ways to become a certified forensic scientist: diplomate, fellow, and affiliate. To receive the diplomate certification, one must have already received a bachelor degree in science-related field along with 2 years of experience. To receive the fellow certification, one must achieve a diplomate certificate first and then pass the Comprehensive Criminalistics Exam. To receive the affiliate level (this is not certified), one must file an ABC request and have it approved by the appropriate committee.
After becoming certified, the forensic scientist can choose to become an expert in a specific field. These include, but are not limited to, footwear certification, bloodstain analysis, art and photography certification, and fingerprint certification.
One such area that many people fail to recognize is forensic handwriting. Experts in forensic handwriting in Phoenix should be court- and board-certified to analyze a variety of handwriting styles. Consultants throughout the state have testified in local, state, and federal courts as well as international courts.
One of the most common types of handwriting consultants evaluate is a signature. One's signature, when learned, becomes habitual and automatic rather than a though-out process. Because signatures are so automatic, it is necessary to employ forensic science consultants who are experts at identifying the differences that may be present in signatures on important documents. Many signatures are questioned on legal documents such as wills, checks, artwork, contracts, etc. This is because these documents are binding in such a way that all parties want to ensure validity.
Forensic scientists are often called in during cases of kidnapping and robbery to evaluate the handwriting on ransom notes. These situations are highly stressful, and law enforcement officials want and need to ensure that those forensic scientists that are called upon can quickly evaluate the handwriting of these types of threats.
It is necessary that forensic scientists, who are called upon in many different cases, have a sample from which to choose from. If you desire to have a document evaluated, be sure to have an original sample of handwriting to provide the forensic scientist with which he/she can compare. Ensure that your consultant has undergone the proper training and is certified by the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners. Forensic scientists must undergo a 2-year training program under the supervision of a certified document specialist. Check your consultant's credentials before making initial contact.
These consultants are qualified to provide analysis in cases dealing with signature forgery, ransom notes, altered medical records and legal documents, suicide notes, ransom notes, and many other areas. Not only can you find these consultants of forensic handwriting in Phoenix, but they are also available throughout the state of Arizona and the rest of the United States.
Source : articlesbase.com
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