Advances in Fingerprint Technology.pdf

When seated in the witness stand, the expert should sit erect but in a
comfortable manner, with feet planted squarely on the floor and hands on
lap. It is most important that clothing fit comfortably. If clothing is uncomfortable,
the witness may be constantly moving, thus conveying the impression
of nervousness.
Courtroom Communication
It should be noted that when talking to the jury, the expert must use easyto-understand
language. Technical jargon does not impress, but rather confuses.
If, during the first few moments of testimony, the jury does not understand
what is being said, they will simply not listen. Under optimum
conditions, an individual’s maximum listening capacity is only about 40%.
Prior to actual testimony, it is an excellent idea for the expert to test responses
to the basic qualifying questions on family, neighbors, or some other laypersons
who have no knowledge of the fingerprint science. If they do not understand
what is being said, the expert should modify his/her answers. The
expert must be conscious of the quality and tone of voice. To emphasize a
point, a pause is much more effective than raising one’s voice. It is good to
remember that a witness is a vocal performer when testifying. An expert’s
responses to questions in court should be succinct but thorough. If the jury
appears interested, however, it is a good policy to go into some detail. The
expert witness can observe the jury’s nonverbal communication to determine
their degree of interest. Pupil dilation of the jurors’ eyes is an indication of
interest. When answering the qualifying question, the expert can closely
observe the jury to determine if their interest has been aroused. This can be
noted very readily if their eyes are transfixed on their own hands and fingers
as they take a close look at the friction ridges the expert is describing. to them.
Credentials
It has been said that when expert fingerprint testimony is presented in plain,
easy-to-understand language, the jury will fully understand what is being
said. However, some attorneys say this is not true. They do not believe that
on the basis of direct testimony only, the jury can fully understand the
fingerprint expert’s testimony. What the jury can understand are the expert’s
credentials. It is felt that if there are two opposing experts presenting testimony
at a trial, usually the one with the more impressive credentials will
prevail. A fingerprint expert’s credentials can be divided into three categories:
1. Education/training
2. Work experience
3. Professional recognition