Forensic science is an important part of the criminal justice system, in both state and federal courts. Forensic scientists examine and analyze evidence from crime scenes and other relevant locations to develop objective findings that may assist in the investigation and prosecution of criminals, or clear an innocent person from suspicion.

Common forensic science laboratory disciplines include (1) forensic molecular biology (DNA); (2) forensic chemistry; (3) trace evidence examination (hairs, fibers, paints, polymers, glass, soil, etc.); (4) latent fingerprint examination; (5) firearms and toolmarks examination; (6) handwriting analysis; (7) fire and explosives examinations; (8) forensic toxicology; and (9) digital evidence.

Practitioners of these forensic science disciplines are usually found in medical examiner or coroner’s offices, universities, and private practices. And the United States Department of Justice maintains forensic laboratories at (1) the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); (2) the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

In Virginia, forensic science is a critical component of the criminal justice system, utilized by both state and federal courts. The Commonwealth of Virginia operates its own centralized forensic laboratory system through the Department of Forensic Science (DFS), which provides scientific analysis of evidence for criminal cases. This includes disciplines such as DNA analysis, forensic chemistry, trace evidence, latent fingerprints, firearms and toolmarks, questioned documents (including handwriting analysis), and toxicology. Additionally, digital evidence is handled by specialized units within law enforcement agencies. Virginia's DFS also maintains a DNA database, which can be used to match profiles from crime scenes with known individuals. Forensic practitioners in Virginia may work for government agencies, such as the DFS, medical examiner's offices, or in private practices. At the federal level, agencies like the ATF, DEA, and FBI maintain their own forensic laboratories to support investigations and collaborate with state and local entities when necessary. Virginia law requires that forensic scientists and laboratories adhere to strict standards and accreditation requirements to ensure the reliability and integrity of forensic evidence used in court proceedings.