ABSTRACT
Documentation is an essential part of any crime scene investigation. Everything that is associated with the crime scene investigation must be documented in writing and becomes part of the permanent case žle. Juries are composed of a more informed citizenry whose demands for facts are based on testimony but are substantiated by documentation. Defense attorneys will seek any opportunity to create a perception of faulty protocol or weak documentation. Remember, defense attorneys do not try to prove their client’s innocence, but rather to create reasonable doubt and gain acquittal or dismissal of charges. One of the most frequently used defense tactics is to attempt to discredit the CSI. When the physical evidence creates linkages that may associate the defendant to the crime and the crime scene then the defense attorney will attempt to cast doubt on the training and actions of the CSI at the crime scene. Every step taken and all evidence developed by the CSI are subject to be tainted by the same doubt. ¨is also creates the possibility that lab results will be mitigated to some degree. Defense attorneys who are successful in creating that level of reasonable doubt in the minds of those in the courtroom may prevent the lab analyses from being presented to the jurors or the judge.
