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 Vermont, forensic science plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system, aiding in the investigation and prosecution of crimes as well as exonerating the innocent. The state adheres to both state statutes and federal law regarding the use of forensic evidence in court. Vermont's Department of Public Safety operates the Vermont Forensic Laboratory, which provides forensic science services to the Vermont State Police and other law enforcement agencies within the state. This lab conducts analyses in several forensic disciplines, including DNA, toxicology, drug chemistry, and trace evidence, among others. Additionally, Vermont law enforcement may also collaborate with federal forensic laboratories, such as those operated by the ATF, DEA, and FBI, for specialized forensic analyses. The admissibility of forensic evidence in Vermont courts is subject to state rules of evidence, which are influenced by the Federal Rules of Evidence and relevant case law, ensuring that such evidence is scientifically valid and has been reliably obtained and analyzed.