SOHAIB KHAN, ABID RASOOL, SAEED UR REHMAN, ASIF NAWAZ, HAMZA JALIL
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20351727Forensic science has become a vital component of modern criminal investigations, providing scientific and objective methods for identifying offenders and establishing factual evidence. This study examines the importance of forensic science laboratories in the investigation process, with a particular focus on medico-legal report writing and its impact on criminal justice outcomes. The research addresses the existing gap in the quality, accuracy, and standardization of medico-legal reports, which can significantly influence legal proceedings and the delivery of justice. A qualitative research design with a mixed-method approach was employed to achieve the study’s objectives. Primary data were collected through structured interviews with seven forensic experts working in a forensic laboratory in Peshawar, while secondary data were gathered from relevant scholarly literature. The data were analyzed using thematic and content analysis to identify key patterns, challenges, and emerging themes related to forensic practices and reporting. The findings reveal that forensic science laboratories play a central role in evidence analysis, enhancing the reliability and objectivity of criminal investigations. Medico-legal reports were identified as critical legal documents that directly influence court decisions by translating complex scientific findings into clear and actionable evidence. Additionally, technological advancements such as DNA analysis and digital forensics have significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of forensic investigations. However, challenges related to workload, interpretation of evidence, and inconsistencies in reporting practices remain significant concerns. The study concludes that strengthening forensic science practices and improving the quality of medico-legal reports are essential for ensuring fair, transparent, and evidence-based justice systems.
