EWJ June 61 2025 web - Flipbook - Page 105
firing live ammunition. The findings were crucial in
determining the appropriate charges, preventing an
unnecessary firearms offence conviction.
Conclusion: The Essential Role of Firearm
Examiners
Forensic firearm examination is a specialised and
evolving field that plays a crucial role in the criminal
justice system. From identifying and classifying
weapons to matching ballistic evidence, forensic experts provide the courts with objective, evidence-based
insights that influence case outcomes.
These cases illustrate the critical role forensic firearm
examiners play in ensuring that firearms-related
evidence is accurately assessed and legally classified.
Advancements in Firearm Examination: 3D-Printed
Firearms
The emergence of 3D-printed firearms presents new
challenges for law enforcement and forensic investigators. While 3D printing has been used to manufacture firearm components for years, recent
advancements have made it possible to create fully
functional firearms with minimal machining.
With ongoing advancements in firearm technology,
including 3D printing and firearm modifications,
forensic expertise is more important than ever. Ensuring accurate classifications, reliable evidence assessments, and clear expert testimony is key to
maintaining the integrity of firearm-related investigations and legal proceedings.
Key issues related to 3D-printed firearms include:
• Ease of Manufacturing: Files for printing gun
components are easily accessible online.
At Forensic Access, we provide expert analysis and
support in firearms examination. If you need assistance in assessing firearm-related evidence or require
expert witness testimony, our specialists are here to
help.
• Legal Implications: Simply possessing 3D-printed
firearm components, or the digital files used to create
them, may constitute an offence.
• Forensic Challenges: Identifying and tracing 3Dprinted weapons requires specialised forensic techniques, as they may lack traditional tool marks found
on factory-manufactured firearms.
Contact our Casework Management Team via email at
science@forensic-access.co.uk
or by phone on 01235 774870.
Forensic Access experts are at the forefront of
addressing these emerging threats, ensuring that
forensic methods evolve alongside technological
advancements.
Connecting you with the right Expert Witness
For over 36 years, Forensic Access has connected defence solicitors with the same
high-quality forensic services as their prosecution counterparts.
Today, Forensic Access has a vast network of experts, enabling us to provide defence teams with
every type of forensic science support available, including:
Blood Pattern and Body Fluid Analysis
Classifications of Weapons and Ammunition
Digital Forensics
DNA Analysis and Interpretation
Drugs and Toxicology
Mobile Phones, Devices and Cell Site Analysis
Pathology and Injury Causation
Psychiatry and Psychology
Work with Forensic Access to find your next Expert Witness:Dedicated Casework Managers - providing end-to-end support
Direct access to a vast network of vetted and experienced forensic and medical experts
We offer CPD webinars to Barristers & Solicitors; and Court & Report Writing training to Experts
Contact our Casework Team
to connect you with the right
forensic experts
EXPERT WITNESS JOURNAL
Telephone: 01235 774870
@forensic-access-limited
@ForensicAccess
103
Email: science@forensic-access.co.uk
Website: www.forensic-access.co.uk
JUNE 2025
