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 North Dakota, forensic science is a critical component of the criminal justice system, utilized by both state and federal courts. Forensic scientists in ND engage in the examination and analysis of evidence from crime scenes, contributing to the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases, as well as exonerating the innocent. The state adheres to standards and regulations that govern the practice of forensic science to ensure the reliability and admissibility of evidence. This includes the disciplines of DNA analysis, forensic chemistry, trace evidence, fingerprinting, firearms and toolmarks, handwriting, fire and explosives, toxicology, and digital evidence. Forensic practitioners may operate within government entities such as medical examiner or coroner’s offices, as well as in academic institutions and private sector labs. At the federal level, agencies like the ATF, DEA, and FBI maintain specialized forensic laboratories that can be utilized in cases with federal jurisdiction or in collaboration with state and local authorities. North Dakota law enforcement agencies may also collaborate with these federal agencies to access their forensic services for complex cases or when specific expertise is required.