ABSTRACT
Forensic evidence can be a powerful tool for investigators and the triers of fact. However recent years have seen increased scrutiny of forensic disciplines, with a growing concern that not all forensic evidence is as reliable and robust as it should be. Misinterpretations and fallacies have crept into the forensic process leading to wrongful convictions and lengthy incarceration of the innocent. Misinterpretations occur when there is an incorrect inference drawn from the forensic examination and fallacies refer to understandings attributed during the forensic examination that have later been shown to be false. In general, these misinterpretations and fallacies in forensic evidence can be attributed to one of two main causes: insufficient application of scientific principles to the underpinning validity and reliability of forensic disciplines and a lack of understanding of the limitations and assumptions related to forensic evidence. The role of the expert is also pivotal in providing a robust and reliable forensic service.
