ABSTRACT
This chapter considers how the import of the results of forensic identification examinations can be most accurately and effectively communicated to trial fact finders. It discusses how fact finders interpret and respond to the expert testimony of forensic science examiners. The chapter provides an analysis of the words to be used when forensic experts report their findings to fact finders. It deals with the help of research exploring other areas of communication, as well as forensic communication, and also discusses the ways in which the communication of forensic identification examination results might be improved. The chapter reviews the relevant literature on fact finders’ interpretation of statistical and probability evidence as it applies to forensic identification. Various fields of forensic science have begun to promulgate standards to guide their member practitioners in conducting examinations, reaching conclusions, and communicating conclusions to fact finders. Some of these standards involve the words to be used when reporting findings to fact finders.
