Legal Analysis Terms
Disclosure |
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A fingerprint expert must provide their CV (curriculum vitae), a list of fingerprints analyzed and their corresponding locations, and their final analysis conclusions of identification, exclusion, or inconclusive. A lab technician or specialist must also disclose any reports, case notes, photos documenting evidence, examinations conducted, continuity, evidence seals broken or replaced, and where evidence travels throughout the analysis.
Exclusion |
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A determination made by the examiner that there is sufficient reliable detail of characteristics in disagreement, such that one can conclude that two fingerprints (friction ridge impressions) did not originate from the same source.
Fingerprint Analysis Report |
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This report contains a detailed outline of the minutiae found on an unknown fingerprint followed by the comparison to the minutiae located on a known print, an evaluation of the comparison, and, finally, the verification done by another analyst (who is unaware of the prior analysis results). The report must also include a detailed fingerprint chart.
Inclusion |
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A determination made by the examiner that there is sufficient agreement between the friction ridge patterns of a known and unknown fingerprint to conclude that both fingerprints may have originated from the same source.
Friction ridge pattern that is found on the fingertips' skin.
Determination made by the examiner that there is sufficient reliable detail of characteristics that one can conclude that two fingerprints (friction ridge impressions) originated from the same source. Established through the continuous agreement of friction ridge formations, in sequence having sufficient uniqueness to individualize.
A determination made by the examiner that there is sufficient reliable detail of characteristics in disagreement, such that one can conclude that two fingerprints (friction ridge impressions) did not originate from the same source.
A determination made by the examiner that there is insufficient reliable detail of characteristics to conclude a possible identification or exclusion of the fingerprint impression in question when compared to known impressions.
A raised texture on the palmar and plantar surfaces of primates that enhances their ability to grip objects.
Individualistic details of various levels that are observed within a fingerprint. These details are used to characterize the fingerprint in question and for inclusion and exclusion purposes.
