Honors Science and the Law:Biological, Ethical Legal Perspectives

Catalog description

This is an Honors course. This course will look at the use of biological evidence in the criminal justice system from the perspectives of a scientist and an experienced criminal defense attorney. Together they will describe the judicial process and their experiences with the system while addressing the strengths and weaknesses intrinsic to both the science and the law. Wherever possible they will employ case-based examples and delve into the ethical considerations intrinsic to the judicial process and to the application of scientific methods and technologies in court. Students will have opportunities to further explore course topics by exploring real cases and sharing their findings in class. A mock trial will be carried out in which students prepare defense and prosecution strategies and serve as attorneys and expert witnesses. Attorneys from the community will serve as judge and jurors.