Reason and Proof in Forensic Evidence

Kola Abimbola

Abstract

This paper examines the process by which forensic investigators generate, discover and configure evidence in pre-trial legal processes. Contrary to the received view in which forensic evidence is regarded as an archetype of objectivity, I argue that the validity, adequacy and persuasiveness of forensic proof is dependent upon elements of Reason that forensic investigators acquire by way of belief and individual interpretation of experiences. Using the examples of fingerprint identification and the analysis of evidence by police offices during the early stages of crime investigations, I argue that forensic evidence is to a large extent subjective.