This research examines the essential connection between justice and ethics in the field of forensic victimology—a specialized area that concentrates on victim behaviors, traits, and experiences as vital elements of criminal investigations and court processes. It emphasizes the significance of forensic victimology in reconstructing crime scenes, forming victim profiles, and aiding in the delivery of evidence-based justice. By referencing theoretical frameworks such as victim precipitation, routine activity, and lifestyle-exposure theories, the chapter illustrates the contributions of forensic victimologists in analyzing the dynamics between victims and offenders, while also warning about ethical dangers such as victim blaming and confirmation bias. The chapter examines different national and international regulations that shape forensic victimology practices, including the UN Declaration of Victims’ Rights, the U.S. Crime Victims’ Rights Act, and the provisions in the Indian CrPC. Nonetheless, it highlights conflicts regarding standards of evidence, privacy concerns, and what is considered admissible in court, referencing significant cases like People v. Taylor and R v. Turner to demonstrate both the advantages and disputes surrounding forensic victimology testimony. The study highlights the importance of maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, ensuring scientific integrity, and avoiding biased profiling of victims. It explores challenges that may arise when forensic evidence is at odds with the well-being of victims or the principles of due process. Suggested actions include creating ethical review committees, standardizing educational programs, implementing trauma-informed practices, and promoting collaboration among legal, psychological, and forensic professionals. The chapter concludes by calling for uniformity in policies across jurisdictions and further investigation into the ethical use of AI in advancing forensic victimology. Ultimately, it is crucial to find a balance between maintaining ethical standards and achieving legal effectiveness to ensure justice for victims while upholding the rights of the accused.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Balancing Justice and Ethics: Legal and Ethical Paradigms in Forensic Victimology

  • Ganesh Ji,
  • Jaffar Alkhayer

摘要

This research examines the essential connection between justice and ethics in the field of forensic victimology—a specialized area that concentrates on victim behaviors, traits, and experiences as vital elements of criminal investigations and court processes. It emphasizes the significance of forensic victimology in reconstructing crime scenes, forming victim profiles, and aiding in the delivery of evidence-based justice. By referencing theoretical frameworks such as victim precipitation, routine activity, and lifestyle-exposure theories, the chapter illustrates the contributions of forensic victimologists in analyzing the dynamics between victims and offenders, while also warning about ethical dangers such as victim blaming and confirmation bias. The chapter examines different national and international regulations that shape forensic victimology practices, including the UN Declaration of Victims’ Rights, the U.S. Crime Victims’ Rights Act, and the provisions in the Indian CrPC. Nonetheless, it highlights conflicts regarding standards of evidence, privacy concerns, and what is considered admissible in court, referencing significant cases like People v. Taylor and R v. Turner to demonstrate both the advantages and disputes surrounding forensic victimology testimony. The study highlights the importance of maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, ensuring scientific integrity, and avoiding biased profiling of victims. It explores challenges that may arise when forensic evidence is at odds with the well-being of victims or the principles of due process. Suggested actions include creating ethical review committees, standardizing educational programs, implementing trauma-informed practices, and promoting collaboration among legal, psychological, and forensic professionals. The chapter concludes by calling for uniformity in policies across jurisdictions and further investigation into the ethical use of AI in advancing forensic victimology. Ultimately, it is crucial to find a balance between maintaining ethical standards and achieving legal effectiveness to ensure justice for victims while upholding the rights of the accused.