Criminal

Our scientific staff are trained to present scientific evidence so that it is easily understood by laypeople. Our staff prepare their own Court documents, including Briefs of Evidence and Affidavits. We are familiar with and follow the Code of Conduct for expert witnesses.

We routinely provide detailed estimates for submission to the Legal Services Agency when an accused person is eligible for legal aid.

We undertake the following services:

• critical appraisal of technical reports and expert evidence
• retrospective scene visits
• experimental simulations
• examination of physical evidence including Court exhibits
• secure collection, storage and return of exhibits
• independent analysis of controlled substances

The areas in which we can provide assistance include:

• biological evidence, including DNA
• blood spatter geometry and interpretation
• drugs including yield calculations and toxicology
• alcohol calculations for drink-drive cases
• firearms and ballistics
• fibres and hairs
• tool-marks and garment damage
• flammable liquids and explosives
• footwear and tyre impressions
• image analysis, including security video footage
• trace evidence including pollen, soil, and paint

To speak to a scientist or request a quote call 0800 28 99 99 or email homicide@forensicscience.co.nz

Links / Recent Articles

Thomas case firearms evidence
Paper on Estimating actual yield in clandestine laboratory syntheses of methamphetamine