Start with the inference in dispute
A report may establish a record without explaining what it means for the issue before the court. Identify the statement relied upon, the relevant source and the decision you need to make. RHEM Labs can help assess whether the technical reasoning supports that inference, including where the available evidence does not favour the instructing party’s position.
Choose a proportionate first step
A preliminary review can identify the source material and work needed. Digital evidence review examines existing findings. An expert report, conference or oral evidence may then be appropriate.
Questions encountered in practice
If a timestamp is being used to identify a person, read digital traces and attribution. If the meaning of an extraction is disputed, read reviewing a police digital-forensic report. The same examination of source, processing and inference applies to reports from private or government examiners.
Explore the forensic questions hub and practitioner checklists. These are explanatory resources, not a substitute for advice on a particular matter.
Preparing an instruction
How to instruct an expert covers conflict checking, scope, deadlines and secure transfer. Fees & engagement explains the factors affecting cost. Dr Matthews’ profile and professional CV set out his technical foundation and professional record.
Discuss the forensic question. Do not send substantive evidence before conflict checking and engagement.