| Forensic science |
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| Physiological sciences |
| Forensic pathology Forensic dentistry Forensic anthropology Forensic entomology Forensic archaeology |
| Social sciences |
| Forensic psychology Forensic psychiatry |
| Other specializations |
| Fingerprint analysis Forensic accounting Ballistics Body identification DNA profiling Forensic arts Forensic toxicology Forensic footwear evidence Questioned document examination |
| Cybertechnology |
| Information forensics Computer forensics |
| Related disciplines |
| Forensic engineering Forensic linguistics Forensic materials engineering Forensic polymer engineering Fire investigation Vehicular accident reconstruction |
| People |
| Auguste Ambroise Tardieu Edmond Locard Bill Bass |
| Related articles |
| Crime scene CSI effect Trace evidence Skid mark Use of DNA in forensic entomology |
Body identification is a subfield of forensic science wherein investigators need to identify a body. Forensic (literally, "for the courts") purposes are served by rigorous scientific forensic identification techniques, but these are generally preceded by simply asking bystanders or other persons for the victim's name[1].
If a body is not badly decomposed or damaged, two persons (or one) who knew the deceased well should visually confirm the identity[2].
Authorities will also compare supportive documents such as driver's license, passport, or other authoritative photo ID before accepting a personal identification with which to further their investigative and/or forensic purposes[3].
Of course, any formal investigation should "reality check" additional forensic and scientific evidence to reinforce or question the supposed identity of the victim[4]. Reliable identification becomes increasingly difficult as time passes[5].
See also
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