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Firearms

Firearms experts are expert witnesses in criminal trials and civil legal proceedings who have specialized knowledge of the design, usage, operation, and history of various firearms. It is their job to explain to a judge and/or jury the capabilities of any given firearm or bullets while taking into account potential biases among those in attendance. They must be extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of firearms as well as applicable laws surrounding them such that they can explain how a firearm was used in an alleged crime or why law enforcement officers may have been justified in using force against a suspect.


In many cases, firearms experts can be asked to provide insight on the choices made by police officers when it comes to using force. This includes determining whether an officer’s decision was reasonable under the circumstances—such as if deadly force was needed—and if any safety precautions were taken prior to discharging live rounds (for example, yelling warnings before shooting). The expert witness must provide unbiased evidence based upon the expertise they possess and answer questions accordingly.


The use of force is essential for law enforcement agents but also must be kept within acceptable parameters established by our criminal justice system and other governing bodies such as human rights organizations. Firearms experts are key witnesses for elucidating what type of physical restraint a law enforcement officer should employ during any given situation based upon both fact-based reasoning alongside experience citing how protocols need to be followed even if sudden or drastic measures need taken (i.e., Guns drawn first, then verbal commands following). Without this expertise during trial proceedings regarding incidents involving a use-of-force encounter with an individual or group might lead towards questionable findings that neglected pertinent details missed due common lack understanding concerning gun usage by non-experts participating on either side’s behalf within courtrooms.

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