This book provides an account of the development of forensic identification technologies and the way in which this has impacted upon the legal system. It traces the advent of forensic identification technologies, focusing on fingerprinting and forensic DNA typing, and their growing deployment within the criminal justice system. It also elucidates the ways in which these new technologies are accelerating procedural changes to investigative practices, and shows the ways in which in some areas human rights (such as privacy rights and rights against discrimination) are coming under threat. The use of forensic evidence in criminal investigations and trials is analysed in detail.

This book uncovers the way in which this new reliance on forensic technologies has gained a foothold within the criminal justice system, and the risks and dangers that this can pose. The National DNA Database provides a particular focus of attention. The author seeks to move beyond an approach that has seen forensic DNA profiling as error free, situating her analysis within broader risk discourses.

About the Author

Carole McCartney is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Law, Leeds University. Her research interests include Australian justice, innocence projects, and DNA and criminal justice.

Reviews

'DNA Technology represents one of the greatest scientific advancements of the last century. It has been truly phenomenal. Forensic Identification and Criminal Justice not only focuses on the development of DNA and other identification technologies and their uses within our criminal justice system, but also identifies the consideration that from scientific, legal and ethical perspectives total reliance on such evidence is not without risk. Such risk might arise as a result of the manipulation, misapplication or misunderstanding of the data in the courtroom. The book blends scientific knowledge and legal principles with philosophical concepts, particularly in relation to civil liberties and human rights. Importantly, it offers nothing that seriously undermines justifiable confidence in DNA evidence. The book provides a penetrating analysis of the subject and is a work for the shelves of force libraries.' David Pickover, legal editor of Police Review

Book Information
ISBN 9781843921844
Author Carole McCartney
Format Hardback
Page Count 272
Imprint Willan Publishing
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 580g