우리나라의 법과학연구 및 과학수사 실태와 발전방안

Crime phenomenon of modern society are rapidly changing in line with its everlasting diversification, sophistication, professionalization, magnification, internationalization, etc.. On the other hand, circumstance of investigation and trial procedure are becoming much different as well as a result of criminal justice renovation. Keeping in mind above facts, it could never be exaggerated even if we repeatedly emphasize the importance of forensic science study and scientific investigation. However, actual situation of both are much lower than the expectation of academicians and practitioners. In that connection, the author tried to critically analyze the status quo of both dimensions from the viewpoint of five major potential variables ; organization, personnel, money, corporation, and leadership. Research results reveal that those who are involved in the forensic science study and scientific investigation are reluctant to communicate with the experts from other institutes or agencies. National Institute of Scientific Investigation(NISI) that are actually leading education and research in the field of forensic science is lack of professionals with sufficient knowledge and experience in spite of excessive demand for forensic examination. It also seems to be very difficult to reconstruct the official relation with National Police Agency since legal status of NISI was totally changed in 2008 from one of general administrative institute attached to the Ministry of Public Administration of Safety into an Agency guaranteed independence and discretion to some extent in its operation and management. As solutions to overcome present deadlocks, the author suggested five countermeasures such as enlargement of capability of NISI, expansion of communication among experts, encouragement of interest in forensic science by public sector, diversification and systematization of professional education, and stable supply of financial resources necessary for efficient and effective management of NISI.