One of the most important parts of being a computer forensics specialist is in the area of evidence preservation. All of the data examined needs to be analyzed and safeguarded in a secure area, and only the forensics expert should have access to the data. Otherwise, a court may not allow the evidence. Often, criminal and civil cases can hinge on the reports made by computer forensics experts, and they need to be able to provide expert testimony on what they find.
It’s a good idea for those involved with this area of forensics, or any other area for that matter, to learn how to feel comfortable when they are on the stand. The opposing lawyers will try to derail the case, and the expert simply needs to state what was found and how it was found.
One of the great things about this type of forensics is that the evidence is usually solid, and there is no reason for any type of guesswork. With other types of forensics, it’s often much easier for the opposing lawyers to come up with ways to discredit the expert. As long as the specialist does his or her job correctly and provides the right reports, there shouldn’t be any problems.
In order to improve your skills while on the stand, it might not be a bad idea to practice long before you ever have to go to court for any type of case. Find some colleagues who have been through trials before and have them help you understand what’s going to happen. You may even want to attend some trials so you have a better idea of how things work.
On the day of the trial, relax and recount what you found. You don’t have to impress anyone with your oratory skills. You just have to explain the evidence.