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 Ohio, forensic science is a critical component of the criminal justice system, utilized by both state and federal courts. Forensic scientists in Ohio work to examine and analyze evidence from crime scenes, contributing to the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases, as well as potentially exonerating the innocent. Ohio has its own state statutes and regulations that govern the practice of forensic science. These regulations ensure that the analysis is conducted in a reliable and scientifically valid manner. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), under the Attorney General's office, operates forensic laboratories that provide services in various disciplines such as DNA analysis, forensic chemistry, and latent fingerprint examination. Additionally, federal agencies like the ATF, DEA, and FBI also maintain forensic laboratories that can be utilized in cases that fall under federal jurisdiction. Forensic practitioners in Ohio may be found in government agencies, medical examiner or coroner offices, academic institutions, or private practices. The admissibility of forensic evidence in court is subject to the Ohio Rules of Evidence, and practitioners may be required to testify as expert witnesses regarding their findings and the methodologies used.