The most consistent finding in forensic science is inconsistency

J Forensic Sci. 2023 Nov;68(6):1851-1855. doi: 10.1111/1556-4029.15369. Epub 2023 Sep 2.

Abstract

The most consistent finding in many forensic science domains is inconsistency (i.e., lack of reliability, reproducibility, repeatability, and replicability). The lack of consistency is a major problem, both from a scientific and a criminal justice point of view. Examining forensic conclusion data, from across many forensic domains, highlights the underlying cognitive issues and offers a better understanding of the issues and challenges. Such insights enable the development of ways to minimize these inconsistencies and move forward. The aim is to highlight the problem, so that it can be minimized and the reliability of forensic science evidence can be improved.

Keywords: cognitive bias; conclusions; decision making; expertise; forensic conclusions; human factors; linear sequential unmasking; reliability; variability.

MeSH terms

  • Criminal Law
  • Forensic Medicine*
  • Forensic Sciences*
  • Reproducibility of Results