تسجيل الدخول

تسجيل

FORENSIC-SPECIFIC ETHICAL ISSUES

المؤلف:  Max M. Houck، Jay A. Siegel

المصدر:  Fundamentals of Forensic Science

الجزء والصفحة:  654

2026-09-10

25

FORENSIC-SPECIFIC ETHICAL ISSUES

Forensic scientists face two major types of ethical dilemmas: those that occur because they are scientists and those that occur because they interact with the justice system. Most forensic scientists see themselves as scientists first and they concentrate most heavily on scientific ethical questions and may not appreciate the complexity and seriousness of the ones that arise from justice system interactions. One way that forensic science is unique, especially in relation to ethics, is the close professional relationship the field has with some other professional cultures. Forensic scientists, law enforcement officers, lawyers, judges, and other scientists work very closely together, but may have very different objectives, rules, and philosophies. Despite the differences, forensic scientists must find a way to get along to support the justice system without succumbing to being unduly influenced or biased by differing ethical behaviors. A good way to do this is to recognize that differences do exist, learn about the rules and customs of the other professions, and then educate others regarding what professional expectations forensic scientists must meet and how they relate to the other profession’s behaviors (“I know you want me to say that the evidence ‘matches’ but what I can say is…”). This sort of open and regular discussion works through issues early before they become unmanageable. Awareness of where the pitfalls and problems may be is key to avoiding them. Examining and exploring common pressures between professions enables individuals to realize common “red flags” to potential ethical misconduct. Looking at the outcome of case studies or examples, and especially events and circumstances leading up to those events, is an invaluable teaching tool for students and professionals. Some ethical issues arise in the forensic science field more than others, including those that involve the use of best practices, validated methods of analysis, instances of bias, seeking notoriety of a personal nature, and becoming advocates for one side or the other.