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Criminology And The Criminal Justice System

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Compared to fifty years ago, thanks to advances in DNA testing, police forces the world over are finding convictions for more serious crimes are seriously boosted by the availability of DNA testing techniques. So what role has DNA testing come to play in the judicial system, and is this a reliable process on which to base criminal convictions?

DNA Testing - Providing evidence

Biologically, DNA testing is a highly accurate way of determining genetic relationships, and determining a positive identification of the source of any genetic material found at the scene of the crime. In many instances it can confirm that a suspect was present at a scene, or was found to bear the DNA of the victim, which is of course very useful, and often determining, information to help solve a crime. However, some corners have suggested that DNA testing might be too prejudicial to the accused, and have subsequently called for directions as to the nature of the evidence presented to be put forth in jury trial settings by the presiding Judge.

The main advantage of DNA testing in court cases is that it's capable of placing the accused at the scene of the crime or confirming that the accused has come into contact with a victim. Along with other strands evidence, this can prove crucial to the outcome of the case and the decision whether or not to proceed to prosecution. Combined with witness identification or other testimony, DNA evidence can raise particularly powerful questions as to the innocence or otherwise of the accused.

DNA Testing ? Is it prejudicial to the accused?

In courts across the world, DNA results have been used to gain valuable convictions against some of the most dangerous and violent of criminals, many of whom would otherwise have walked free. However there have been some successful appeal verdicts heard on the basis of overly prejudicial evidence. DNA results, after all, do not prove an individual committed a crime ? they can only determine the presence, positively or negatively, of genetic material, which is an important element of circumstantial evidence, but not necessarily critical to the case. Thus some high-profile individuals have claimed DNA evidence to give a potentially misleading impression to jury members, which might adversely affect a fair trial.

DNA Testing ? Here to stay

There is no doubt DNA testing has become more relevant in a legal context in recent years. What's more, with continuing research in the field, the methods and techniques available will continue to improve. In addition, when it comes to determining whether we're right to put such faith in genetic testing, it's best to consider that we don't have any better scientific way of determining identity. When used with other circumstantial evidence, it is generally accepted that DNA testing is particularly effective, and rightly an important inclusion in the modern criminal justice system.

Criminology And The Criminal Justice System

One of the professions society entrusts with reduction of crime is criminology. A criminologist studies crime and criminal behavior in an attempt to find solutions that would help combat it. In this article, I will discuss why criminologists are need in the criminal justice field.

First of all, the criminal justice profession and society at large need to understand why certain groups of people commit crime. Understanding why people commit crime helps develop programs to prevent it.

This is where criminologists come in. They will gather the criminal data or record for this group. The criminologist will then analyze this group data to see if there are any trends that could be causing this crime. If he or she does find a trend, he or she can then make recommendations to the criminal justice profession or society on what can be done to combat the crime.

Second, it is said that those that ignore history are bound to repeat it. So, it is in the best interest of the criminal justice system and society to study the history of criminals.

The criminologist plays this role for society and the criminal justice system. The criminologist studies the history of criminals. This study reveals what leads criminals to commit crimes. With this revelation, the criminal justice system and society can develop programs to help people at risk before they become criminals.

Third, the criminal justice profession and society need to constantly evaluate the criminal justice system. An unexamined system can become obsolete.

Criminologists also play this role. They will evaluate the criminal justice system to make sure it is keeping up with the times. With the rapid advancement in technology, it is imperative that the system keep up with this technology.

It is not just technology that needs to be kept up to date. The system of crime and punishment must also meet with the times. Things that were used years ago may not be effective in the modern time.

Fourth, as with any profession, the criminal justice system must develop the staff for tomorrow. Without new blood being pumped into the system, the system will die a natural death.

This is another role the criminologist must play. The ones with advanced degrees teach the new students of the profession. They teach the history, theories, and concepts that underlie the system. It is important that the new students understand these history, theories, and concepts.

Finally, the criminal justice system must maintain crime statistics. Without maintaining crime statistics, predicting future crimes will be difficult.

Again, the criminologist is needed here. The criminologist will collect and catalogue crime data. This data will then be analyzed to predict future crimes. This prediction will then be shared with law enforcement agents. The law enforcement agents will then use the information to stop crimes before they happen.

The criminal justice system and society surely need criminologist. If you are interested in becoming a criminologist, you have vital roles to play. You will need to learn more about the profession and all the things that are expected of you. You can find more information on becoming a criminologist by visiting websites that have more information on the subject.

Author's Note: You are free to reprint or republish this article. The only condition is that the Resource Box should be included and the links are live links.

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Both Kevin Camilleri & Kenneth Echie are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

Kevin Camilleri has sinced written about articles on various topics from Celebrities, Medicine and Criminal Defense Law. Kevin Camilleri writes articles for . Other articles written by the author related to. Kevin Camilleri's top article generates over 5400 views. to your Favourites.

Kenneth Echie has sinced written about articles on various topics from Adsense, Careers and Job Hunting and Careers and Job Hunting. Copywrite Kenneth Echie. Kenneth is a writer for . Get free scholarship report and learn to become a. Kenneth Echie's top article generates over 110000 views. to your Favourites.

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