Wrongful convictions and forensic science

Abstract

More than 2,600 exonerations have been documented in the United States since 1989. Forensic science-in the form of postconviction DNA testing-has played a critical role in the revelation that wrongful convictions are a problematic feature of criminal justice. Yet, forensic science is also among the many factors-including eyewitness misidentification, false confessions, informants, and more-that are correlates of wrongful convictions. Forensic science contributes to erroneous convictions when analysts provide invalid testimony at trial or when such evidence fails to correct false crime theories. Moreover, while intentional forensic misconduct certainly exists, the effects of confirmation biases may present a greater threat to forensic analyses. The preceding mechanisms and reform efforts are discussed.

Wrongful convictions and claims of false or misleading forensic evidence

“…Extensive research and commentary have supported the claim that cognitive bias plays a major role in forensic science errors related to wrongful convictions [108]. Most research has focused on the influence of contextual information on the reliability and biasability of pattern evidence examiners.…”

Práticas de avaliação psicológica em âmbitos jurídicos: Uma pesquisa com profissionais da América Latina

“…Palavras-chave: avaliação psicológica; contexto jurídico; estado mental; risco de violência; simulação; dano psicológico; América Latina La evaluación psicológica requerida en ámbitos jurídicos ofrece conocimientos específicos que se diferencian de aquellos propios de jueces y jurados (Younan & Martire, 2021) y de contextos clínicoasistenciales (Arellano & Rivera Heredia, 2021;Echeburúa et al, 2011). Las técnicas empleadas en estas evaluaciones, así como las conclusiones que de su uso deriven los expertos, deben ser relevantes y confiables en relación a la pregunta que atienden, pues influyen en decisiones judiciales que comprometen las libertades individuales y la seguridad pública (Bonventre, 2021;Garrett & Neufeld, 2009).…”