Forensic Sciences Under Siege

Abstract

Deep international study of validity and reliability of forensic evidence have resulted in serious reforms in the last two decades. The period of scientific evaluation of forensic disciplines took place in the period when the attention generated by the appearance of new criminal tv-shows turned to the forensic science. However, the coincidence in time does not necessary mean that the two phenomena are related. In any case, international scientific debate about admissibility of forensic methods led to a point, when – according to Pyrek - forensic science has undergoing siege. It can be determined, that only a few researchers have addressed this topic more in-depth in Hungary. The aim of the article is to review the most important scientific results dealing with weaknesses of forensic science and expert evidence.