Expert Witness Journal Issue 65 February 2026 - Flipbook - Page 13
Why don’t we use probability to match 昀椀ngerprints?
Objectivity
Attempts have been made to introduce 昀椀ngerprint
analysis technology using statistical models that
aim to predict whether there’s a strong, moderate
or weak likelihood of a 昀椀ngerprint being a match.
However, all these models have failed, in part
because they do not take into account the wealth of
friction ridge detail which experts include in their
analysis and comparison.
Fingerprint experts also need to ensure they remain
as objective as possible in their analysis. The Forensic
Science Regulator recognises that cognitive bias including cultural and contextual biases - have the
potential to in昀氀uence 昀椀ngerprint decision making.
To prevent outcomes being based on assumptions
over evidence, 昀椀ngerprint experts mitigate biases by
following the relevant cognitive bias guidance and
undertaking training.
How 昀椀ngerprint experts ensure their opinion
is valid
Contact Forensic Access
Independent analysis
E昀昀ective use of 昀椀ngerprint evidence depends
on expert interpretation, clear instruction and
independent analysis. Our casework management
team supports legal professionals in instructing
appropriately quali昀椀ed 昀椀ngerprint experts and
maximising the evidential value of forensic material
in criminal proceedings.
For an expert’s opinion of a 昀椀ngerprint to stand
up in court, the analysis needs to be undertaken
independently. Contemporaneous notes made by
the previous expert should not be shared with the
specialist or it risks jeopardising the results of their
review. The independent 昀椀ngerprint expert will
make their own notes and will only view the original
notes if there is a di昀昀erence of opinion.
Contact us at science@forensic-access.co.uk
or on 01235 774870.
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
11
Email: science@forensic-access.co.uk
Website: www.forensic-access.co.uk
FEBRUARY 2026
