Demonstrates the interplay and interdependence of the Federal Rules of Evidence to reveal more of their character as an integrated code of evidence. There are, for serious students and practitioners, frequent citations to authorities. The entire text has been carefully reviewed, resulting in both substantive and editorial revisions. Subjects that are brought up-to-date include admission of scientific and probabilistic evidence, rape shield and related statutes, hearsay, and constitutional evidence doctrine. Use as a supplement to an evidence course, as a principal course book, or as a basic text assigned prior to the study of advanced evidence of trial advocacy.

Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community. The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are clear: assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs. While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators.

DIVAn American poetry classic, in which former citizens of a mythical midwestern town speak touchingly from the grave of the thwarted hopes and dreams of their lives. /div