Forensic Science: Building the Case

Forensic Science: Building the Case begins with a mock crime and follows the case through the investigation and trial.  Students will be able to assume the roles of investigator and lawyer (and even juror in our final determination of the outcome of the case).  

We will begin with a set of evidence, which the student investigators will analyze before requesting additional information or suggesting other areas of investigation.  The expansion of evidence in this mock case will be somewhat more tightly controlled than in my other mock crimes, due to the need to complete the investigation and to maintain a semblance of realism.

Once the evidence has all been gathered, we will, as a group, solve the case and determine what charges to bring against the alleged perpetrator.  We will also consider the dangers or overcharging or undercharging in our case.  Once the charges are set, will we will work on organizing the Prosecution and Defense cases.

The final four sessions will be devoted to the mock trial, beginning with "motion" hearings on issues such as hearsay, illegal searches, or problems with witness statements or interrogation.