Justice and science have converged in Saint Lucia for the 9th Annual Caribbean Medicolegal and Forensic Symposium, a premier regional event uniting leading legal, medical, and forensic minds to tackle one of the justice system’s most complex questions: Are miscarriages of justice in the Caribbean real or imagined risks?
The three-day symposium, held under that theme, features experts from across the globe exploring how science and law intersect in the courtroom, and how error, whether human or procedural, can erode confidence in the justice system.
Delivering opening remarks, Acting Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, Her Ladyship the Honourable Justice Margaret Price-Findlay, underscored the vital role of science in modern jurisprudence.
“Undoubtedly, the relationship between law and science is crucial to the proper administration of justice,” she said. “In today’s courtrooms, the reliable and expert interpretation of scientific evidence often determines the outcome in serious criminal matters. Advances in digital forensics, DNA analysis, toxicology, and pathology have revolutionized the evidentiary landscape.”
Her Ladyship cautioned that while scientific progress has strengthened criminal investigations, it also raises new ethical and procedural challenges.
She reminded participants that “every miscarriage of justice chips away at public trust,” stressing that courts must remain vigilant in ensuring the integrity of evidence and expert testimony.
Dr. Alfredo Walker, CEO of the Caribbean Medilogical Society and one of the event’s principal organizers, highlighted the breadth of expertise represented at this year’s symposium.
“The didactic component of the program will be delivered by a multidisciplinary faculty of regional and international practitioners from as far as Sri Lanka and Morocco,” he said.
“These presenters are of diverse backgrounds and experts in their own right. It is hoped that you, the symposium participants, will gain knowledge and insight into this rather topical and significant issue that you can take back to your respective jurisdictions of practice.”
Dr. Walker noted that the event blends academic discussion with practical demonstrations, including forensic simulations and case study analyses, designed to sharpen participants’ real-world investigative and courtroom skills.
For Attorney General of Saint Lucia, the Honourable Leslie Mondesir, the symposium’s focus on accountability and reform could not be more timely.
“As legal professionals and government officials, it is our duty to protect the integrity of the justice system and ensure that it serves all citizens equally,” he said. “This powerful question challenges us to delve into the intricate intersection of forensic science, medical legal practice, and the justice system itself.”
He emphasized that the sessions aim “to highlight the crucial role of quality assurance, examine potential pitfalls, and identify concrete recommendations to fortify the delivery of justice to prevent miscarriages across our region.”