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 Iowa, forensic science plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system, aiding both state and federal court cases. Forensic scientists in Iowa work to examine and analyze evidence from crime scenes, contributing to the investigation and prosecution of criminal activity, as well as potentially exonerating the innocent. The state adheres to scientific and legal standards to ensure the reliability and admissibility of forensic evidence. Iowa's Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Crime Laboratory provides forensic services in several disciplines, including DNA analysis, toxicology, latent fingerprints, firearms and toolmarks, and trace evidence, among others. Additionally, federal forensic resources are accessible through agencies such as the ATF, DEA, and FBI, which maintain their own specialized forensic labs. These federal agencies may collaborate with state authorities on cases that require their expertise or fall under federal jurisdiction. It's important to note that the admissibility of forensic evidence in court is subject to legal standards, such as the Daubert standard, which requires that the methodology underlying the evidence be scientifically valid and applicable to the case at hand.