Forensic Science is not like the movies or like the popular television show CSI. Here are some myths and facts about Forensic Science.
| CSI | Real Life Forensic Scientist |
|---|---|
| One person does a little of everything (investigate, interrogate, collect evidence, arrest people, analyze evidence) | Police officers do crime scene investigation, interrogations, arrests Forensic scientists are IN THE LAB analyzing the evidence |
| Analysis of evidence is completed in minutes | Analysis may take hours, days, weeks, or months |
| Results are always clear and definite | Results need interpretation of a skilled scientist |
| No messy paperwork to fill out | LOTS of paperwork and report-writing required |
| Forensic scientists respond to all crime scenes | Rarely go to crime scenes |
| Cool Hummer vehicles and all the latest equipment is available | Most labs are state-funded, and budgets are often tight |
| All alternate lighting is blue | Need good full-spectrum lighting |
| Dress in stylish clothing | Court session attire: conservative, professional dress and appearance Workplace attire: appropriate for a laboratory setting |
| Characters have degrees in chemistry, biology, or other sciences | Challenging college course work in chemistry, biology, physics and math are needed to get the degree that will let you work in a crime lab |