Letter from the Editor.

Abstract

Sir: Procedures for case work in forensic toxicology may be divided into three areas: the taking of relevant samples, the laboratory analysis, and the interpretation of the findings. In each of them, the forensic toxicologist has certain responsibilities. Based on practical experience and on ongoing methodological and technological innovations, the handling of these responsibilities and procedures is generally considered to be quite adequate. Yet observations of some cases in which we became involved as well as some from the literature seem to indicate that serious problems still occur and that improvements in certain areas are needed. The following cases may serve as relevant examples.