Publication details
The Use of Microtraces in Criminal Proceedings
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2026 |
| Type | Paper in proceedings |
| Conference | Criminalistics and forensic expertology: science, studies, practise XXII |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Keywords | criminal proceedings; evidence; traces; microtraces; problematic aspects |
| Description | In the context of evidence in criminal proceedings, we also encounter so-called microtraces, which are admissible as evidence for the purposes of criminal proceedings, even if they constitute „only“ circumstantial evidence. They must therefore form part of a coherent chain of other evidence relating to the circumstances that are the subject of the evidence. This does not, however, detract from their significance, as apart from their use in criminal proceedings, microtraces can be a significant clue in an ongoing investigation, which may lead to the identification of the perpetrator and, where appropriate, to the acquisition of further evidence, as we have attempted to demonstrate in this article. However, the use of microtraces is also associated with many problematic aspects. It is precisely these issues that will be discussed in this article. |