Discussion on how to implement a verbal scale in a forensic laboratory: Benefits, pitfalls and suggestions to avoid misunderstandings

In a recently published guideline for evaluative reporting in forensic science, the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) recommended the use of the likelihood ratio for the measurement of the value of forensic results. As a device to communicate the probative value of the results, the ENFSI guideline mentions the possibility to define and use a verbal scale, which should be unified within a forensic institution. This paper summarizes discussions held between scientists of our institution to develop and implement such a verbal scale.

Source: Science and Justice - June 1, 2016 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Raymond Marquis, Alex Biedermann, Liv Cadola, Christophe Champod, Line Gueissaz, Genevi ève Massonnet, Williams David Mazzella, Franco Taroni, Tacha Hicks Source Type: research