Forensic Evidence and Perceptions of Attorneys
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to measure forensic evidence and perceptions of attorneys. This research was conducted to answer the question: Do the defense and prosecuting attorneys have different perceptions on forensic evidence when determining someone’s innocence or guilt during a trial. The sample consisted of 45 attorneys that works within the Metro Nashville DA’s and Attorneys office. This study was completed by using quantitative research methodology focusing on gaining statistical data, as well as non-probability sampling, to measure the attorney’s perceptions. Each participate was provided with a survey that consisted thirteen questions The independent variables of the attorneys analyzed were race, age, gender, and longevity. The dependent variables consisted of Likert scale statements of attorney’s perceptions regarding forensic evidence. Spearman’s Rho was used to determine the statistical significance and correlation. The results showed that employment and longevity had a statistically significant relationship with attorney’s perceptions on several of the statements of forensic evidence used in the court room to determine someone’s innocence or guilt. All other variables showed no statically significant relationship.
Subject Area
Forensic anthropology|Social psychology|Criminology
Recommended Citation
Jasmine James,
"Forensic Evidence and Perceptions of Attorneys"
(2018).
ETD Collection for Tennessee State University.
Paper AAI10978821.
https://digitalscholarship.tnstate.edu/dissertations/AAI10978821