Forensic science is one of the most fascinating and applicable subjects in the law school curriculum. In reality, forensic science is a rigorous discipline that is essential to legal processes, although it is often approached through the lens of crime movies and TV series. It provides future lawyers with the knowledge necessary to uncover crimes, identify perpetrators, and handle evidence in a legal and appropriate manner.

Practical applicability in criminal investigations

            Forensic science is distinguished from other legal fields by its practical applicability. It is not just about articles of law, but rather about real practices that are used in criminal investigations. Hearing witnesses and defendants, conducting a search, reconstructing a fact or even drafting a report of findings are essential concepts that we learn in the first year of studying this discipline. Since any mistake can compromise a piece of evidence or even the entire criminal case, each of these actions must be carried out carefully.

The meeting between science and law

            Another essential aspect of forensics is related to the technique of discovering traces. Here we learn, first of all, how to identify, collect and preserve papillary traces (fingerprints), biological traces (DNA, blood), ballistic traces, shoe marks or those left by various objects. Whether we are talking about graphoscopy (handwriting analysis), ballistics expertise or the digital examination of a computer device, it is a fascinating field where law meets science. Students in faculties that offer forensic laboratories have the chance to experience these methods firsthand. Crime scenes are simulated, fingerprints are collected and evidence is analyzed, all in conditions as realistic as possible.

             As the subject progresses, students learn that each type of crime requires a distinct approach. Investigating a theft or a computer fraud uses different methods than investigating a murder. Forensic science teaches us to recognize the pattern of each crime, to make working hypotheses, and to logically follow the thread of evidence, without being influenced by prejudice or appearances.

A discipline that changes perspective

            I believe that my perspective on criminal justice was completely changed by this discipline. First of all, it showed me how complicated the work of criminal investigation is and how important each stage of it is. Forensic science involves building a demonstration based on verifiable facts and evidence, rather than simply “catching the culprit”. It is a team effort involving experts, investigators, lawyers and sometimes even technicians, each with a clear function to establish the truth. I liked the attention to detail, the importance of logical reasoning and the importance of critical thinking, which questions any hypothesis until it is clearly confirmed.

Importance for all justice actors

            In reality, forensics is also very beneficial for lawyers and judges, despite the fact that many associate it exclusively with police officers and prosecutors. A competent forensic lawyer can challenge evidence obtained illegally or prove that an investigation was flawed. In order to correctly evaluate evidence, judges must understand how it was collected. Every detail is important in a criminal trial. Forensic science is the tool through which we can understand every detail.

             In conclusion, forensics is not just a subject that complements legal training, but a discipline that trains logical thinking, practical sense and responsibility towards the truth. It is a bridge between science and theory, between law and practice, and its function is vital for an efficient and modern justice system. Forensic science continues to be an essential landmark in the education of those who assume the role of defenders of legality in a legal world that is becoming increasingly complex.

                                                                                                              Mǎdulǎrea Andra-Elena

                                                                                                          Legal Intern R&R Partners