Forensic Science:

Forensic science is fast becoming a dominant factor in many criminal cases in the American justice system. Cases ranging from DUI, drug possession, burglary, and even some fraud and white collar cases will likely possess evidence that will be subjected to forensic analysis. Thus, it is important to hire an attorney who has a broad understanding of the complexities of forensic science principals and how the application of those principals will affect your case. Mr. Buckallew has completed graduate training in forensic science, having attained a Masters of Forensic Science degree from National University. Moreover, Mr. Buckallew is an associate member of the American Academy of Forensic Science.

Forensic science is the application of basic and advanced scientific principals within the context of both the civil and criminal legal systems. The purpose is to answer isolated and relevant questions through the analysis of physical evidence. The answers to these questions will assist the Trier of Fact (i.e., the judge or jury) in determining the truth of a contested matter.

Forensic science is a broad category not easily defined or compartmentalized. The field of forensic science could more accurately be conceived of as the conglomeration of disparate scientific disciplines melded into a unified whole for the purpose of achieving the ultimate goal of all science, which is the determination of the true nature of the question or hypothesis under investigation. Thus, forensic science includes aspects of biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology, medicine, dentistry, psychiatry, psychology, geology, and entomology to name just a few.

The discipline known as forensic science can be generally broken down into the following categories:

• Organic Analysis (e.g. Chromatography, Spectrophotometry)
• Inorganic Analysis (e.g. Neutron Activation Analysis, X-Ray Diffraction)
• Physical Evidence Analysis
• Hairs, Fibers, and Paint (including identification, collection, analysis)
• Forensic Toxicology
• Forensic Serology
• DNA
• Fingerprints
• Firearms, Tool Marks, and other Impression Evidence
• Polygraph and Voice Stress Analysis*

  *(This area is more of a philosophy or theory of psychology as opposed to a true scientific principal – but it can be useful in some cases and under some circumstances).

• Forensic Odontology
• Forensic Pathology
• Forensic Entomology

If you (or someone you know) are facing criminal charges, contact our offices to schedule a free evaluation of your case.