What is Forensics?

The word forensic comes from the Latin word "forensis." The meaning of forensics later came to be restricted to refer to the courts of law and entered English usage in 1691.

Forensics is the science (forensic science) that deals with the application of medical facts to legal issues and proceedings. Forensic chiropractic is that branch of medicine that deals with the application of medical facts to legal issues and proceedings.

A forensic evaluation or analysis is performed to determine the facts that will act as a basis for an expert opinion. The results of the inquiry are then reported in an objective, unbiased, evidence based manner.

A forensic examiner possesses specialized knowledge, skill, training, or experience and is qualified to provide an expert opinion to the trier of fact in matters that exceed the common knowledge of ordinary people. The forensic examiner may be retained as an expert witness by opposing parties in legal disputes if they have the knowledge, skill, training, or experience within the area in controversy and that is relevant to the case. The work of the forensic examiner includes assisting the trier of fact before a case enters the court. The expert opinion is based on scientific or document investigation, not circumstantial evidence or the unreliable testimony of witnesses (junk science). The forensic examiner can contribute to procedural processes by using science in the search for facts in federal, civil, and regulatory matters.