Evaluative conclusion
Definition
A forensic opinion that addresses the weight of the evidence, typically expressed as an LR or a verbal equivalent. Distinct from a finding (what was observed) or an identification (a categorical claim). The evaluative conclusion places the observed findings in a probabilistic framework comparing competing hypotheses.
Related terms
- ENFSI Guideline for Evaluative Reporting
- A consensus guidance document from the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes that defines how member laboratories should express evaluative opinions. It...
- Likelihood ratio (LR)
- The ratio of two conditional probabilities: the probability of the observed evidence given the prosecution's hypothesis (same source), divided by the probability...
- Source-level hypothesis
- A proposition about who or what produced a trace, for example 'this glass came from the broken window at the crime scene'...
- UK Forensic Science Regulator (FSR)
- The statutory body in England and Wales responsible for setting and monitoring quality standards in forensic science. The FSR has published codes...
- Verbal scale
- The ENFSI translation of numerical likelihood ratios into courtroom language: very strong support (LR over 10,000), strong support (LR 1,000-10,000), moderate support...
Explained in
- Verbal Equivalents of the Likelihood RatioA forensic opinion that addresses the weight of the evidence, typically expressed as an LR or a verbal equivalent. Distinct from a finding (what was observed)...