Fundamentals of Forensic Science, Third Edition, provides current case studies that reflect the ways professional forensic scientists work, not how forensic academicians teach. The book includes the binding principles of forensic science, including the relationships between people, places, and things as demonstrated by transferred evidence, the context of those people, places, and things, and the meaningfulness of the physical evidence discovered, along with its value in the justice system.
Written by two of the leading experts in forensic science today, the book approaches the field from a truly unique and exciting perspective, giving readers a new understanding and appreciation for crime scenes as recent pieces of history, each with evidence that tells a story.
Section I. Criminal Justice and Forensic Science
1. Introduction
2. Crime Scene Investigation
3. The Nature of Evidence
Section II. Analytical Tools
4. Microscopy
5. Light and Matter
6. Separation Methods
Section III. Biological Sciences
7. Pathology
8. Anthropology and Odontology
9. Entomology
10. Serology and Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
11. DNA Analysis
12. Forensic Hair Examinations
Section IV. Chemical Sciences
13. Illicit Drugs
14. Forensic Toxicology
15. Textile Fibers
16. Paint Analysis
17. Soil and Glass
18. Fires and Explosions
Section V. Physical Sciences
19. Friction Ridge Examination
20. Questioned Documents
21. Firearms and Toolmarks
22. Impression Evidence
23. Forensic Engineering
Section VI. Legal and Forensic Science
24. Digital Evidence and Computer Forensics
25. Legal Aspects of Forensic Science
