Forensic science is an important part of the criminal justice system, in both state and federal courts. Forensic scientists examine and analyze evidence from crime scenes and other relevant locations to develop objective findings that may assist in the investigation and prosecution of criminals, or clear an innocent person from suspicion.

Common forensic science laboratory disciplines include (1) forensic molecular biology (DNA); (2) forensic chemistry; (3) trace evidence examination (hairs, fibers, paints, polymers, glass, soil, etc.); (4) latent fingerprint examination; (5) firearms and toolmarks examination; (6) handwriting analysis; (7) fire and explosives examinations; (8) forensic toxicology; and (9) digital evidence.

Practitioners of these forensic science disciplines are usually found in medical examiner or coroner’s offices, universities, and private practices. And the United States Department of Justice maintains forensic laboratories at (1) the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); (2) the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

In Florida, forensic science is a critical component of the criminal justice system, utilized by both state and federal courts. The state adheres to various statutes and regulations that govern the practice of forensic science. Florida has its own network of crime laboratories operated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), which provides forensic services including DNA analysis, chemistry, trace evidence, latent prints, firearms, questioned documents, fire debris, and toxicology. These labs assist law enforcement agencies across the state with the analysis of evidence. Additionally, Florida has specific statutes that address the collection, preservation, and analysis of DNA evidence, which is regulated to ensure the integrity and reliability of the results. At the federal level, agencies such as the ATF, DEA, and FBI operate forensic laboratories that may also serve cases within Florida. These federal labs follow strict protocols and accreditation standards to maintain the quality and admissibility of forensic evidence in court. Forensic practitioners in Florida may work in various settings, including government agencies, medical examiner or coroner’s offices, universities, and private practices. The admissibility of forensic evidence in court is subject to the Daubert standard in Florida, which requires that the methodology used is scientifically valid and applicable to the facts of the case.