Functions and duties of the forensic electrical engineer

Abstract

Forensic engineers have several duties, in some cases to be performed in conflictual situations (e.g. depositions). The competencies of the forensic electrical engineer include the knowledge of engineering standards and best practices, familiarity with applicable laws and regulations, as well as wise decision making. In this paper, functions and duties of the forensic electrical engineer preparing for a trial are discussed and quantitative methods of technical evaluation are proposed. Around the world, institutions establish and define the competencies of the forensic engineer, and promote the advancement of the forensic science through conferences, and publications. To resolve the historical dichotomy between the logic of the "certainty" required by the judicial outcome of proceedings, and the logic of the "uncertainty" of the engineering, this paper suggests utilizing the subdivision of accident-related trials, when a risk assessment must be provided, into two levels; a junior "engineering" level (which may be public is some jurisdictions, confidential in others), followed by a senior level or formal trial, might together better support the formulation of the verdict by providing a more exhaustive analysis of the accident causation, and parties' responsibilities. Key words: forensic science, logic of certainty and uncertainty, fuzzy logic, technical investigation, cindynic model.