Forensic Science-Code of Conduct for Forensic Scientists

1. Integrity and Honesty

It is one of code of conduct for Forensic scientists.

  • Uphold truthfulness and transparency in all professional activities.
  • Never manipulate, alter, or invent data or findings.
  • Base conclusions solely on verifiable evidence and sound scientific practice.

2.Impartiality and Objectivity

  • Maintain neutrality in all investigations, regardless of the party involved.
  • Refrain from engaging in any activity that could lead to bias or create a perceived conflict of interest.
  • Resist influence from external forces, including legal, institutional, or public pressure.

3.Professional Competence

  • Accept assignments only when qualified through training, education, or experience.
  • Engage in regular skill development through courses, certifications, or seminars.
  • Know and acknowledge personal professional boundaries; request expert input when needed.

4.Confidentiality

  • Safeguard all sensitive case details unless disclosure is legally mandated or formally authorized.
  • Do not share case-related information in public forums or with unauthorized individuals.

5.Clear and Accurate Reporting

  • Keep thorough, consistent records for all analytical and investigative work.
  • Ensure all reports reflect the facts, remain unbiased, and avoid unsupported opinions.
  • Transparently disclose uncertainties, limitations, or conditions affecting findings.

6.Commitment to Quality Standards

  • Follow accredited lab procedures and uphold recognized forensic quality guidelines (e.g., ISO standards).
  • Take part in routine quality control activities, including audits and proficiency testing.
  • Immediately report any procedural mistakes, misconduct, or deviations from protocols.

7.Ethical Courtroom Behaviour

  • Provide evidence-based testimony within one’s field of competence.
  • Clearly separate factual statements from interpretive opinions during testimony.
  • Avoid overstating the impact or certainty of forensic results when addressing the court.

8.Respect for Persons and Rights

  • Treat all individuals involved in the forensic process-victims, suspects, and peers-with dignity and fairness.
  • Ensure that scientific practices do not contribute to injustice, such as false accusations or wrongful convictions.

9.Ethical and Professional Conduct

  • Steer clear of professional engagements that may involve ethical compromise or personal interest.
  • Demonstrate integrity and respect in all workplace and investigative interactions.
  • .Support the responsible growth of forensic science through mentorship, research, and
    ethical innovation.

Qualifications for Forensic Scientists.

Educational qualification

Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in one of the following fields:

  • Forensic Science
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Physics
  • Criminalistics
  • Master’s degree (MSc) in
  • Specialize in a specific area such as:
  • Forensic Toxicology
  • Forensic Biology/DNA
  • Forensic Chemistry
  • Digital Forensics
  • Forensic Psychology

Skill

  • Critical thinking
  • Communication skills
  • Objectivity and impartiality
  • Time management

Report Writing

1.Cover Page & Contents List

Start your report with key case identification:

  • Investigation title or reference number
  • Name of the assigned forensic expert
  • Submission date
  • Affiliated organization or department
  • Follow it with a well-organized table of contents to help readers navigate the report with ease.

2.Overview of the Case

Provide a brief and clear summary of the investigation:

  • Why the investigation was initiated
  • What general steps were followed during analysis
  • Highlight the main outcomes or findings
  • This section is aimed at readers with no technical background and should avoid complex language.

3.Case Context and Objectives

Set the foundation for the report by answering:

  • Who requested the forensic examination?
  • What are the main questions or concerns that need addressing?
  • Were there any boundaries or limitations affecting the investigation?
  • This section outlines the “why” and “how far” of the inquiry.

4.Tools and Methods Used

This part should describe how the analysis was carried out:

  • Names and versions of all tools or equipment used
  • Description of each process or procedure used during analysis
  • Any particular configurations or settings applied
  • This ensures another qualified expert could reproduce the investigation under the same conditions.

5.Description of Evidence

This is the core section where all relevant evidence is presented:

  • What kinds of evidence were examined (e.g., digital files, physical samples, images)?
  • How and where was each item recovered or collected?
  • Include visual elements such as diagrams, tables, or photographs
  • If applicable, include verification techniques like hash values to confirm data integrity
  • Stick to factual details onlyp-this section should not contain analysis or opinions.

6. Interpretation of Results

Now, explain what the findings mean in relation to the case:

  • How do the findings support or contradict the case questions?
  • Are there any other logical explanations for the results?
  • Interpretations must be based on proven methods or scientific reasoning
  • This is the analytical heart of the report where facts meet context.

7.Summary and Action Points

Bring the report to a close with a final assessment:

  • Clearly state which facts are supported, challenged, or unresolved
  • Recommend further analysis, interviews, or follow-ups if necessary
  • Avoid personal opinions-focus solely on what the data supports
  • This is where decisions are informed, not made.

8.Supporting Documents & References

End the report with materials that back up the investigation:

  • Raw output data or analysis logs
  • Screenshots from tools used in the process
  • Definitions for technical terms used in the report
  • List of all resources, tools, or legal standards cited
  • This section ensures transparency and professional accountability.