Forensic Science Experts for Criminal Defence Solicitors

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About Us

Managing Director: Alan Baker BSc CChem MRSC MEWI MCSFS

Alan Baker has been a Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC) and a Chartered Chemist (CChem) since 1994. He is also listed on the UK Register of Expert Witnesses, a member of The Expert Witness Institute, and a Member of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences—credentials that reflect his standing as a highly qualified and trusted forensic science expert.

In 2004, Alan acquired Bericon Forensics, one of the UK’s longest-established forensic science consultancies. Under his leadership, the company has seen significant growth, with the annual caseload quadrupling. Alan’s recognised expertise has led to numerous media appearances, including Sky News, CNN, ITN, BBC Radio, Talk Radio, and Legal TV, where he has been called upon to provide expert insight on high-profile cases involving forensic analysis, fire investigation, DNA evidence, and handwriting comparison.

Alan’s forensic science career began after graduating with First Class Honours in Applied Chemistry in 1988. He joined a scientific consulting firm in Derby in 1990 and played a pivotal role in transforming it into one of the UK’s leading independent forensic laboratories. By 1997, he was promoted to Divisional Manager, responsible for all forensic and drug testing services.

With a career spanning over 6,000 forensic case investigations, Alan has provided expert evidence for both the prosecution and defence in Magistrates’ Courts and Crown Courts across the UK. His courtroom expertise is supported by Bond Solon Courtroom Skills qualifications and decades of practical casework experience.

Today, Alan leads a national network of over 50 specialist consultants and forensic organisations, delivering comprehensive forensic science services and expert witness support to the legal profession, police forces, and courts throughout the UK.

The Forensic Process – Then and Now

Historical background:

The provision of expert forensic science services has significantly changed over the last decade compared to the traditional setup. In the past, the Home Office Forensic Science Service was the primary provider of forensic services, operating regionally and offering a comprehensive range of services to police forces.

Introduction of Competition:

In the 1990s, competition entered the market, leading to the emergence of smaller forensic organizations. These smaller entities often specialised in specific areas of forensic work, such as drugs testing and document examination, challenging the dominance of the Home Office Forensic Science Service.

Increased Specialisation:

The growing specialisation within the field of forensics means that police forces now source their forensic services from multiple laboratories. This specialisation allows for more focused analysis in specific areas of interest but often at the expense of undertaking a broad range of examinations and tests.

Budgetary Constraints:

Police forces now analyse fewer samples and items due to budget constraints. Forensic scientists often receive requests to concentrate on specific, isolated aspects of a case.

Role of Bericon:

Bericon, a forensic services provider, addresses legal system challenges like court deadlines and late evidence submissions. We ensure a speedy response to any enquiry and flexibility to meet clients’ needs.

Importance of Reviewing the Forensic Process:

The significance of reviewing the entire forensics investigation process cannot be over-emphasised and should include assessment of the collection of evidence, the handling and packaging of samples, the selection of items submitted to the laboratory, and, crucially, the interpretation of scientific evidence.

Continuity and Contamination:

The quality and reliability of forensic samples depend on proper collection and packaging. Issues related to the continuity and contamination of items are critical concerns for both forensic scientists and legal clients.

Assessment of Costs:

Police forces are increasingly focused on assessing the costs of investigations. This cost-driven approach can impact the decision to pursue a particular line of inquiry or evidence collection.

Public Perception:

Forensics often captures the public’s imagination and is seen as crucial for successful prosecutions. However, the changing nature of police investigations makes it more important than ever to scrutinise how and why evidence is accumulated and how it is presented in court.

In 2024, the challenges in forensic science and the legal system highlight the crucial need for independent scrutiny of evidence for accuracy and reliability.

 

Contact Bericon today.

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