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Law 101: Legal Guide for the Forensic Expert

Following Lab Policies for Report Writing

Photo of a lab technician writing a report. Caption reads, 'Following Lab Policies for Report Writing.'
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (see reuse policy).

Laboratories should have standard policies on report writing. Most have template language that describes frequently encountered situations and outcomes. Writers should ensure that all conclusions contained in a report are supported by the raw data or test results. If appropriate, qualifying language should be included on scientific opinions to avoid misinterpretation if the data do not support a conclusive opinion.

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