On Tuesday 18th December the House of Lords Science and Technology Select Committee will question senior judges about the use of Forensic Science in courts in England and Wales and its contribution to the delivery of justice.
The Committee will ask the witnesses how judges can ensure that the analysis and interpretation of forensic evidence presented in court has a firm scientific basis. The Committee will also ask whether there are effective channels for the communication of advice on science and technology to the judiciary.
The Session will begin at 4:25pm in Committee Room 4A of the House of Lords. Giving evidence will be:
- Lord Hughes of Ombersley, former Justice of the Supreme Court
- His Honour Judge Wall QC, Circuit Judge
- Sir Brian Leveson, President of the Queen’s Bench Division and Head of Criminal Justice
Questions the Committee are likely to ask include:
- What is the level of understanding of forensic science within the Criminal Justice System amongst lawyers, judges and juries?
- When a case that relies on forensic evidence comes before you how do you ensure that any expert witness is sufficient qualified to speak about the subject?
- Is enough being done to prepare for the increasing role that digital forensics will have in the Criminal Justice System in the future?
- Is there a source of responsive and ongoing independent, balanced and accessible analysis of science and technology in relation to legal issues available to the judiciary?
(4)
Article Link: http://digitalforensicsmagazine.com/blogs/?p=2616