Subjects
Maths
Chemistry
Biology
English Language
History
Responding to change (a2 only)
Infection and response
Homeostasis and response
Energy transfers (a2 only)
Cell biology
Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (a-level only)
Biological molecules
Organisation
Substance exchange
Bioenergetics
Genetic information & variation
Inheritance, variation and evolution
Genetics & ecosystems (a2 only)
Ecology
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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
The cold war
Inter-war germany
Medieval period: 1066 -1509
2d religious conflict and the church in england, c1529-c1570
2o democracy and nazism: germany, 1918-1945
1f industrialisation and the people: britain, c1783-1885
1c the tudors: england, 1485-1603
2m wars and welfare: britain in transition, 1906-1957
World war two & the holocaust
2n revolution and dictatorship: russia, 1917-1953
2s the making of modern britain, 1951-2007
World war one
Britain: 1509 -1745
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Criminology
7 Dec 2025
1,989
3 pages
learningaboutpeople @learningaboutpeople2
Examining information for validity is crucial when handling evidence in legal proceedings. Understanding how to assess the reliability... Show more
Evidence forms the backbone of any legal case, coming in two main forms physical evidence (like DNA, fingerprints and CCTV) and testimonial evidence (statements from victims, witnesses and experts). For evidence to be useful, it must be reliable, relevant and admissible.
The accuracy of evidence significantly impacts its validity. Physical evidence is generally considered objective and precise, not relying on potentially flawed human memory or perception. However, evidence can be compromised through contamination, as happened in Adam Scott's case where he was wrongfully convicted of rape after his DNA sample was cross-contaminated in a lab that reused equipment.
Another factor affecting evidence validity is currency - whether the collection methods and interpretations are up-to-date and widely accepted. Modern forensic techniques must be employed to ensure evidence isn't compromised. Different types of evidence also carry different weight in court, with DNA typically considered more reliable than eyewitness testimony. The case of Andrew Makinson illustrates this issue - he spent years wrongfully imprisoned based primarily on witness identification despite not matching the victim's description and later being exonerated by DNA evidence.
Remember Even seemingly solid evidence like DNA only proves someone was present at a scene, not necessarily that they committed a crime. This is called circumstantial evidence - it suggests but doesn't directly prove guilt.
Trial transcripts create an essential record of court proceedings, typically digitally recorded and then transcribed by professionals. These records are usually stored for five years and can be requested by the public (though requests may be denied and fees apply). Transcripts are vital for appeals and parole board decisions as they provide an official account of what was said.
The validity of trial transcripts depends largely on their accuracy. Digital recording captures every word spoken, and professional transcriptionists ensure precision in the written record. However, validity can be compromised by circumstances such as mumbled speech, nervous witnesses, or poor audio quality, potentially causing crucial information to be missed or misrepresented.
Media reports on legal cases reach the public through newspapers, television, online platforms and other channels. These reports can significantly influence public opinion and even affect those involved in investigations or trials. Despite instructions to ignore media coverage, jurors may still be unconsciously influenced by what they've seen or read before a trial.
Media reports often suffer from validity issues due to their subjective nature. They frequently include the opinions and biases of reporters rather than just facts. The case of Christopher Jefferies demonstrates this problem - he was wrongfully arrested for murder and then demonised by the press, which damaged his reputation before he was proven innocent. Media outlets may also exaggerate stories to increase engagement, as seen during the 2010 London riots where reporting created a moral panic by overstating the scale of the unrest.
Watch out Media bias can significantly distort your understanding of a case. Always question whether a report is presenting facts or opinions disguised as facts.
Court judgments represent the formal decisions made by magistrates, jurors, and judges. These rulings can order payment of damages, issue court orders, dismiss claims, or declare rights. They're typically based on presented evidence, legal arguments, and interpretation of laws. If dissatisfied with a decision, parties may appeal to a higher court.
A major factor affecting judgment validity is bias. Those making legal decisions bring their own perspectives based on personal characteristics like gender, race, age, and life experiences. They may also harbor unconscious biases or stereotypes that influence their reasoning. The Hillsborough inquiry provides a striking example - the original investigation into the deaths of 96 football fans cleared officials and blamed victims, only to be reversed 27 years later when institutional bias, media narratives, and political interests were overcome.
Court judgments also reflect opinions rather than purely objective facts. Magistrates and jurors base decisions on their subjective assessment of evidence and its persuasiveness. Importantly, juries aren't required to justify their decisions, meaning judgments might be rendered without clear reasoning. This subjective element means court rulings aren't always reliable representations of factual truth.
Key insight Understanding that judgments can be influenced by biases helps explain why multiple courts or appeals may reach different conclusions about the same case - they're not simply applying rules to facts, but interpreting information through their own perspectives.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
17
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
learningaboutpeople
@learningaboutpeople2
Examining information for validity is crucial when handling evidence in legal proceedings. Understanding how to assess the reliability and accuracy of different types of evidence helps ensure justice is properly served and prevents wrongful convictions. This skill is essential for... Show more
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Evidence forms the backbone of any legal case, coming in two main forms: physical evidence (like DNA, fingerprints and CCTV) and testimonial evidence (statements from victims, witnesses and experts). For evidence to be useful, it must be reliable, relevant and admissible.
The accuracy of evidence significantly impacts its validity. Physical evidence is generally considered objective and precise, not relying on potentially flawed human memory or perception. However, evidence can be compromised through contamination, as happened in Adam Scott's case where he was wrongfully convicted of rape after his DNA sample was cross-contaminated in a lab that reused equipment.
Another factor affecting evidence validity is currency - whether the collection methods and interpretations are up-to-date and widely accepted. Modern forensic techniques must be employed to ensure evidence isn't compromised. Different types of evidence also carry different weight in court, with DNA typically considered more reliable than eyewitness testimony. The case of Andrew Makinson illustrates this issue - he spent years wrongfully imprisoned based primarily on witness identification despite not matching the victim's description and later being exonerated by DNA evidence.
Remember: Even seemingly solid evidence like DNA only proves someone was present at a scene, not necessarily that they committed a crime. This is called circumstantial evidence - it suggests but doesn't directly prove guilt.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Trial transcripts create an essential record of court proceedings, typically digitally recorded and then transcribed by professionals. These records are usually stored for five years and can be requested by the public (though requests may be denied and fees apply). Transcripts are vital for appeals and parole board decisions as they provide an official account of what was said.
The validity of trial transcripts depends largely on their accuracy. Digital recording captures every word spoken, and professional transcriptionists ensure precision in the written record. However, validity can be compromised by circumstances such as mumbled speech, nervous witnesses, or poor audio quality, potentially causing crucial information to be missed or misrepresented.
Media reports on legal cases reach the public through newspapers, television, online platforms and other channels. These reports can significantly influence public opinion and even affect those involved in investigations or trials. Despite instructions to ignore media coverage, jurors may still be unconsciously influenced by what they've seen or read before a trial.
Media reports often suffer from validity issues due to their subjective nature. They frequently include the opinions and biases of reporters rather than just facts. The case of Christopher Jefferies demonstrates this problem - he was wrongfully arrested for murder and then demonised by the press, which damaged his reputation before he was proven innocent. Media outlets may also exaggerate stories to increase engagement, as seen during the 2010 London riots where reporting created a moral panic by overstating the scale of the unrest.
Watch out: Media bias can significantly distort your understanding of a case. Always question whether a report is presenting facts or opinions disguised as facts.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Court judgments represent the formal decisions made by magistrates, jurors, and judges. These rulings can order payment of damages, issue court orders, dismiss claims, or declare rights. They're typically based on presented evidence, legal arguments, and interpretation of laws. If dissatisfied with a decision, parties may appeal to a higher court.
A major factor affecting judgment validity is bias. Those making legal decisions bring their own perspectives based on personal characteristics like gender, race, age, and life experiences. They may also harbor unconscious biases or stereotypes that influence their reasoning. The Hillsborough inquiry provides a striking example - the original investigation into the deaths of 96 football fans cleared officials and blamed victims, only to be reversed 27 years later when institutional bias, media narratives, and political interests were overcome.
Court judgments also reflect opinions rather than purely objective facts. Magistrates and jurors base decisions on their subjective assessment of evidence and its persuasiveness. Importantly, juries aren't required to justify their decisions, meaning judgments might be rendered without clear reasoning. This subjective element means court rulings aren't always reliable representations of factual truth.
Key insight: Understanding that judgments can be influenced by biases helps explain why multiple courts or appeals may reach different conclusions about the same case - they're not simply applying rules to facts, but interpreting information through their own perspectives.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
17
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
App Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
