Digital Forensics

This course introduces the basic concepts and technologies of digital forensics. Students will learn the fundamental techniques and tools utilized for collecting, processing, and preserving digital evidence on computers, mobile devices, networks, and cloud computing environments. Students will also engage in oral and written communication to report digital forensic findings and prepare court presentation materials.

 

Discussion: What qualifies a person to be an expert witness ?

Answer:

What qualifies a person to be an expert witness is that he must possess certain qualifications and expertise that enable him to give specialized knowledge and opinion in a particular field. Following are some points and facts that support what will qualify a person to be an expert witness:
Knowledge and Education: These witnesses must possess as much knowledge and education as possible in their particular field. This generally means a Ph.D. in their specialty. Such a level of education would provide the deep understanding required to form opinions on complex matters.
Professional Experience: Expert testimony requires extensive experience in the area of one’s expertise. That experience will enable them to apply their knowledge in real situations and to provide insight that is of value to the court or the proceedings. Typically, expert witnesses have a history of practical work, research, or consulting in the area concerning their expertise.
Specialized expertise: The expert evidence given by an expert witness needs to be specific and related to the case in issue. In each case the court would usually be looking for someone who has made his or her career centered on that subject area. Thus a forensic scientist could be qualified to give expert opinion on matters concerning DNA analysis, a financial analyst might give evidence regarding complex financial transactions.
Reputation and Credentials: An expert has to have a good standing reputation and acceptable credentials within his field. This can be established by publications to reputable journals, presentation in conferences, and professional memberships in organizations relevant to his field. A person’s standing in the professional community adds credibility to his opinions and, therefore, enhances his qualification as an expert witness.