The Interpretation of Forensic Conclusions by Professionals and Students
Publication - 2023
Are professionals better at assessing the evidential strength of different types of forensic conclusions compared to students? In an online questionnaire, 96 crime investigation and law students, and 269 crime investigation and legal professionals assessed three fingerprint examination reports.
Methodology
All reports were similar, except for the conclusion part, which was stated in a categorical (CAT), verbal likelihood ratio (VLR), or numerical likelihood ratio (NLR) conclusion with high or low evidential strength.
No Difference Between Students and Professionals
The results showed no significant difference between the groups of students and professionals in their assessment of the conclusions. They all overestimated the strength of the strong CAT conclusion compared to the other conclusion types and underestimated the strength of the weak CAT conclusion.
Influence of Background
Their background (legal vs. crime investigation) did have a significant effect on their understanding. Whereas the legal professionals performed better compared to the crime investigators, the legal students performed worse compared to crime investigation students.
Authors
- Elmarije van Straalen
- Christianne de Poot
- Marijke Malsch
- Henk Elffers
Forensic Science research group
From DNA testing to chemical analysis: modern techniques enable examination, in minute detail, of crime-scene materials. However, success and fairness depend on correct interpretation and evaluation. The Forensic Science research group is making an important contribution via its work with the police and other parties in the criminal justice chain.