Validity of Evidence in Criminology: A Comprehensive Guide
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Sienna
7/21/2025
Criminology
Criminology Unit 3 ac 3.1 Validity
1,813
•
Jul 21, 2025
•
Criminology: Validity of Evidence and Media Influence on Crime
Sienna
@smojo27
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 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 Trial Transcripts
This page focuses on the validity of trial transcripts and their importance in the criminal justice system.
Trial transcripts are documented proceedings of Crown Court trials, now recorded digitally rather than by stenographers. They serve several important purposes:
- Ensuring the rights of the accused in case of appeal
- Assisting the Parole Board in reviewing judges' advice on defendant risk upon release
Highlight: Trial transcripts are considered highly valid sources due to their official nature and the rarity of technical malfunctions in the recording process.
When assessing the validity of trial transcripts, consider the following factors:
- Bias
- Accuracy
- Currency
- Opinion
- Circumstance
Definition: Reliability and validity of forensic science evidence refers to the consistency and accuracy of scientific evidence presented in court, which can be crucial in determining the outcome of a case.
Validity of Media Reports in Crime Coverage
This page examines the validity of media reports on crime and their influence on public perception.
Journalists play a significant role in investigating and reporting crime stories that affect or interest the public. However, media reports can contain substantial bias, both intentional and unintentional.
Example: Influence of media on crime reporting examples can be seen in how different newspapers frame the same crime story based on their political leanings.
Newspapers: In Britain, newspapers often support specific political perspectives, which can influence their crime reporting. For instance:
- The Sun and Daily Mail tend to have a more Conservative leaning
- Newspaper journalists have the freedom to express opinions and make judgments, potentially introducing bias
Television and Radio: In the UK, these platforms are expected to present information impartially and free from political bias. However, criticisms have been raised, such as accusations of right-wing bias against the BBC.
Highlight: The impact of media on public perception of crime can be significant, often shaping public opinion and influencing policy decisions.
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:
- Political bias: Jurors who believe sentences are too lenient may be more likely to find defendants guilty.
- Race bias: Unconscious stereotypes can affect verdicts, potentially leading to unfair outcomes.
- 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.
Examining Information Validity in Criminology
This page introduces the topic of examining information validity in criminology, which is a crucial aspect of Unit 3, Assessment Criterion 3.1. The concept of validity in criminological evidence is fundamental to ensuring fair and accurate legal proceedings.
Definition: Validity of evidence in criminology refers to the extent to which evidence accurately represents the facts or phenomena it is intended to measure or describe.
Highlight: Understanding the validity of evidence is essential for students of criminology, as it forms the basis for reliable criminal investigations and just legal outcomes.
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
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Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Criminology: Validity of Evidence and Media Influence on Crime
Sienna
@smojo27
Validity of Evidence in Criminology: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide explores the crucial aspects of evidence validity in criminology, covering physical evidence, expert testimony, witness accounts, trial transcripts, media reports, and court judgments. It highlights the importance of proper evidence... Show more
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 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.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
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By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Validity of Trial Transcripts
This page focuses on the validity of trial transcripts and their importance in the criminal justice system.
Trial transcripts are documented proceedings of Crown Court trials, now recorded digitally rather than by stenographers. They serve several important purposes:
- Ensuring the rights of the accused in case of appeal
- Assisting the Parole Board in reviewing judges' advice on defendant risk upon release
Highlight: Trial transcripts are considered highly valid sources due to their official nature and the rarity of technical malfunctions in the recording process.
When assessing the validity of trial transcripts, consider the following factors:
- Bias
- Accuracy
- Currency
- Opinion
- Circumstance
Definition: Reliability and validity of forensic science evidence refers to the consistency and accuracy of scientific evidence presented in court, which can be crucial in determining the outcome of a case.
Validity of Media Reports in Crime Coverage
This page examines the validity of media reports on crime and their influence on public perception.
Journalists play a significant role in investigating and reporting crime stories that affect or interest the public. However, media reports can contain substantial bias, both intentional and unintentional.
Example: Influence of media on crime reporting examples can be seen in how different newspapers frame the same crime story based on their political leanings.
Newspapers: In Britain, newspapers often support specific political perspectives, which can influence their crime reporting. For instance:
- The Sun and Daily Mail tend to have a more Conservative leaning
- Newspaper journalists have the freedom to express opinions and make judgments, potentially introducing bias
Television and Radio: In the UK, these platforms are expected to present information impartially and free from political bias. However, criticisms have been raised, such as accusations of right-wing bias against the BBC.
Highlight: The impact of media on public perception of crime can be significant, often shaping public opinion and influencing policy decisions.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
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:
- Political bias: Jurors who believe sentences are too lenient may be more likely to find defendants guilty.
- Race bias: Unconscious stereotypes can affect verdicts, potentially leading to unfair outcomes.
- 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.
Examining Information Validity in Criminology
This page introduces the topic of examining information validity in criminology, which is a crucial aspect of Unit 3, Assessment Criterion 3.1. The concept of validity in criminological evidence is fundamental to ensuring fair and accurate legal proceedings.
Definition: Validity of evidence in criminology refers to the extent to which evidence accurately represents the facts or phenomena it is intended to measure or describe.
Highlight: Understanding the validity of evidence is essential for students of criminology, as it forms the basis for reliable criminal investigations and just legal outcomes.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
You have the choice, we offer a 100% secure payment via PayPal or an Amazon gift card. There is no limit to how much you can earn.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user