Chemistry and the Law Division

Forensic Ethics Unveiled: From Concept to Action On-Demand Workshop This course is being conducted in our On-Demand format, giving the attendee the ability to view and complete the content when it is convenient for their schedule. Forensic ethics encompass the guidelines that employ foundational decision-making within the forensic laboratory. These principles are established and upheld through codes of conduct by recognized professional bodies. Laboratories build comprehensive frameworks including policies, standard operating procedures, and organizational charts to steer operations and workflows. While understanding these rules is essential, practical ethics also requires communicating concerns and violations, skills honed through experience and practice. In this workshop we will delve deep into the intricate realm of ethics within the field of forensics, aiming to meticulously unravel the multifaceted layers of ethical considerations. The overall focus will be on ethical issues in real-world scenarios, practicing sound decision making, and navigating through intricate case studies meticulously designed to simulate real-life challenges. We will start with a comprehensive overview of fundamental ethical principles and discuss challenges that may manifest within the laboratory setting. This course will teach the principles of root cause analysis and use examples of laboratory policy and protocols, as well as how they can be properly utilized to guide ethical determinations and judgements. DETAILED LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Objective 1: Exposure to real-world cases beyond television series and podcasts Objective 2: Practicing decision-making when things go wrong Objective 3: Developing sought after skills including critical thinking and willingness to ask questions Objective 4: Understanding root cause analysis to implement effective solutions PRESENTERS Dr. Kelly Elkins     Dr. Kelly Elkins is a Professor of Chemistry and Forensic Science at Towson University in Maryland. Prior to joining Towson University, was the Director of Forensic Science and an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the Metropolitan State College of Denver. Her area of research is in DNA testing and human identification and drug analysis. She has over 20 years of teaching and research experience and has published dozens of book chapters and journal articles on her research. She is the author, co-author, or editor of seven forensic science textbooks/lab manuals including a book on ethics. She was a Post-doctoral Fellow at MIT and a Fulbright Scholar in Germany at the University of Heidelberg and the European Media Lab. Kelly earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry from Keene State College and Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Chemistry Science from Clark University. She is an active member and Fellow of both the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) and the American Chemical Society (ACS) and Past-Chair of the Ethics Subcommittee for the Division of Professional Relations of the ACS and the Council of Forensic Science Educators (COFSE). She has organized several symposia at ACS meetings in the area of ethics education. Theresa DeAngelo     Theresa DeAngelo is the Quality Assurance and Safety Manager for the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division. Since 2015 she has been overseeing the Quality Assurance program for more than 100 employees within the State’s three laboratories and 13 Crime Scene Offices located throughout Maryland. Theresa also runs the safety program for the entire laboratory system. Theresa’s previous positions within the field of forensic science include the Coordinator for the Maryland State Forensic Laboratories Oversight Program and several years of service working for crime laboratories for the Baltimore City Police Department, the Baltimore County Police Department and the New York City Police Department. Her crime lab experience includes crime scene, controlled dangerous substances (seized drugs) and case management. Theresa holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Biology from University of Maryland, Baltimore County and a Master’s of Science Degree in Forensic Science from Towson University. She is an active Member of AFQAM, a Member of the Mid-Atlantic Association for Forensic Scientists (MAAFS), an Associate Member of the American Academy of Forensic Scientists (AAFS), and is currently the Chair of the Ethics Subcommittee for the Professional Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS-PROF). *The course content has been reviewed by the ABFT and ABC and determined to be acceptable for submission to the ABFT and ABC for continuing education credits.   Register Here  ... View more

ACS Webinars September 4, 2025 @ 2:00 PM EDT Register for Free! Step behind the caution tape and into the lab with a forensic scientist Kelly Elkins of Towson University and attorney James Carver of The Carver Law Firm as they uncover what it truly takes to succeed in forensic science, both at the bench and on the witness stand. First Kelly Elkins will reveal how forensic scientists collect and analyze evidence, master advanced analytical techniques, and translate complex data into clear, courtroom-ready testimony. Learn the academic paths, hands-on experiences, and rigorous training that prepare these experts for their critical role in justice. Then, shift to the high-stakes legal arena where James Carver will disclose the ethical responsibilities, communication strategies, and courtroom survival skills every expert witness needs. From handling cross-examination to avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll gain advice on how to protect your credibility and make your testimony count. Whether you’re a student considering a forensic career, a scientist eyeing expert witness work or simply fascinated by the science–law connection, this webinar will deliver practical guidance and real-world wisdom from two seasoned professionals. This ACS Webinar is moderated by Gabriel Ferrante of Goodwin Procter LLP and co-produced with the ACS Division of Chemistry & the Law. What You Will Learn What skills and scientific foundation are ideal for a career in forensic science How to communicate complex evidence clearly for judges, juries, and attorneys How to avoid the most common mistakes that can undermine expert testimony Event Details Thursday, September 4, 2025 @ 2-3:15pm ET Free to attend Slides will be available to download on the day of the webinar ... View more