Do you have to be qualified as an expert to work as an evidence technician?

Working as an evidence technician does not require one to be qualified as an expert in the traditional sense; rather, the role focuses on the proper collection, preservation, and documentation of physical evidence at crime scenes. Evidence technicians typically undergo specific training to develop the skills necessary to handle evidence responsibly and effectively, but this training does not equate to expert qualifications like those required for forensic analysts or specialists who testify in court.

The role of an evidence technician is primarily operational and procedural rather than interpretive. A technician must adhere to established protocols and guidelines to maintain the integrity of the evidence, which could later be analyzed by experts. The distinction lies in the responsibilities of the role: while technicians need extensive knowledge of the procedures involved, they do not need to hold the same level of expertise that an expert witness or specialist does. This foundational understanding allows them to function effectively within criminal investigations without the need for expert qualifications.