The murder case against Robert Durst is the latest controversy involving forensic science — can analysis of handwriting on two envelopes demonstrate guilt, or will contradictory analysis and doubts about the technique lead to acquittal? That discipline is one of several in which reliability has been called into question over the past few years. A National Commission on Forensic Science is considering changes in procedures and techniques. How can forensic science be made more dependable and professional?
Responses:
Can't Fix the System Without Fixing the Science
Peter Neufeld, Innocence Project
Evidence Needn't Be Air Tight If Limits Are Clear
Barry A.J. Fisher, Retired crime laboratory director
Prosecutors Should Use Evidence for Justice, Not Victory
Erin E. Murphy, law professor
Judges Need to Set a Higher Standard
Nancy Gertner, former federal judge
Arson Cases Show the Need for Better Training
John Lentini, Fire investigation consultant
Strengthen It Without Undermining It
Betty Layne DesPortes, defense lawyer
