Types of Evidence and Their Validity

This page delves into the validity of different types of evidence used in criminal proceedings, including physical evidence, expert testimony, and witness accounts.

Physical Evidence: Physical evidence is considered valid when properly collected, transferred, stored, and analyzed by qualified personnel. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in the UK vets evidence to ensure it passes the 'Evidential Test' of the Full Code Test.

Example: Continuity of evidence is crucial for maintaining the validity of physical evidence. For instance, a DNA sample must be properly sealed, labeled, and documented from the crime scene to the laboratory to ensure its admissibility in court.

Expert Evidence: Expert testimony is generally regarded as having good validity due to the objectivity and experience of the experts. However, it's important to note that experts can make mistakes or be influenced by concerns for their reputation.

Vocabulary: Admissibility of evidence in criminal proceedings UK refers to the legal standards that determine whether evidence can be presented in court.

Witness/Testimonial Evidence: The validity of witness testimony can be affected by various factors, including:

• Mistaken identity
• Leading questions
• Memory erosion
• Weapons focus
• Discussion of events with others

Example: The Innocence Project has demonstrated how mistaken eyewitness identifications have led to wrongful convictions, highlighting the importance of critically examining witness testimony.

Validity of Court Judgments and Jury Decisions

This page explores the validity of court judgments and the factors that can influence jury decisions.

Court judgments from judges and juries are not always accurate and can be influenced by various biases:

1. Political bias: Jurors who believe sentences are too lenient may be more likely to find defendants guilty.

2. Race bias: Unconscious stereotypes can affect verdicts, potentially leading to unfair outcomes.

3. Gender bias: Assumptions about the character of rape victims have been known to influence jury decisions.

Example: Judicial bias cases UK have highlighted instances where judges' personal views or backgrounds may have influenced their rulings, raising questions about the impartiality of the justice system.

Highlight: The campaign group Inquest argues that there is an inherent bias in the system, particularly in cases involving deaths in police custody or due to actions of public organizations.

Example: The Hillsborough disaster inquiry is often cited as a case where institutional bias may have affected the initial inquest outcomes.

Vocabulary: Factors influencing jury decision making Psychology refers to the psychological processes and external influences that can impact how jurors interpret evidence and reach verdicts.

Understanding these potential biases is crucial for ensuring fair trials and maintaining public trust in the criminal justice system.