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c.
Language
One of the most hotly debated topics among forensic science professionals
is the use of language, both in testimony and reports. The dilemma stems
from the fact that data composed of numbers, patterns, or images must be
expressed in words. By definition, this involves a translation of sorts, and not
everyone agrees on the correct translation. Language is simply an imprecise
way to express scientific and mathematical concepts. But, without it, we have
 
Figure 11.2
(continued) Inherent problems in STR Testing.
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280
Principles and Practice of Criminalistics
 
Figure 11.3
 
Example of a good report from a laboratory analyst.
The headings
for a report vary according to jurisdiction, and will not be included here.
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Communicating Your Results — Where Science Meets the Law
281
no way to reach the layperson who must ultimately understand the import
of our results.
The whole issue is complicated by the fact that many of the terms we
use are “terms of art.” Criminalists don’t agree among themselves about the
intended meaning of several commonly used phrases, not to mention the
lack of consensus between scientists and attorneys. Additionally, many ana-
lysts take advantage of “weasel words” that relieve them of the responsibility
of crafting a statement that conveys their conclusions as accurately as possible.
Finally, the terms we use to describe our laboratory results are also used in
everyday language. They have acquired connotations that may or may not
be appropriate to their use as descriptors of a scientific conclusion.