About Us

Managing Director: Alan Baker BSc CChem MRSC MEWI MCSFS

Alan Baker became a Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC) and a Chartered Chemist (CChem) in 1994. In addition, he is also on the UK Register of Expert Witnesses, a member of The Expert Witness Institute and a Member of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

When the opportunity arose in 2004 to buy Bericon Forensics, one of the UK’s oldest forensic science consultancies, Alan grabbed the chance with both hands. Since then, he quadrupled the company’s annual caseload and received invitations to appear on Sky News, CNN, ITN, BBC Radio, Talk Radio, and Legal TV when they sought expert opinions on high-profile cases relying on forensic examination, fire investigation, DNA evidence, and handwriting comparison. He and his team have become authorities in these areas over the last 40 years.

His role as a forensic scientist has incorporated both prosecution and defence investigations for police forces and solicitor practices across the UK, giving evidence in numerous Magistrates’ courts and the Crown Court, utilising his formal Bond Solon Courtroom Skills qualifications and training, combined with the invaluable experience gained from over 6,000 forensic investigations.

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.