Speaker
Prof. Carol Henderson is the founding director of the National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law and a Professor of Law at Stetson University College of Law. Professor Henderson has presented more than 300 lectures and workshops worldwide on scientific evidence, courtroom testimony, and professional responsibility. She has more than 90 publications including “Sleuthing Scientific Evidence Information on the Internet,” 106 J. Crim. L & Criminology 59 (2016) and “Future Focus for Forensic Science,” a special issue of The Sci Tech Lawyer (2017). Prof. Henderson has appeared in national media as a legal analyst and testified before the U.S. Congress. She served as the president of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (2008-2009) and presently co-chairs the Life & Physical Sciences Division of the ABA’s Science & Technology Law Section. She is the Deputy Editor -in- Chief of The Sci Tech Lawyer. She also serves on the ABA Judicial Division Forensic Science Committee and as faculty for the National Judicial College.
Description
The interdisciplinary training and education of attorneys and scientists is essential to ensure reliable and just outcomes in all cases- criminal and civil. Increasingly, many cases are determined by forensic evidence, yet only a small percentage of attorneys receive training in scientific evidence. Many forensic scientists do not receive substantive training in the law and courtroom skills. There is a continuing need for greater communication and collaborative research between the legal and scientific disciplines. Efforts must be made to share knowledge and deliver accurate information quickly and efficiently to both communities.
Since the publication of the NAS Report in 2009, there have been many recommendations for increased training and sharing of research between lawyers and scientists. A collaborative, interdisciplinary model has been sought.
This presentation will review interdisciplinary programs and resources in forensic science and law, many of which are free, that have been developed worldwide by universities, professional associations, government agencies and national and international commissions.
The National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law’s program of webinars and seminars will be highlighted.