TOXICOLOGICAL EVIDENCE IN FORENSIC PHARMACOLOGY: LEGAL AND SCIENTIFIC INTERFACES IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE

AUTHOR – JAYASETHURAM K, STUDENT AT SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE IN LAW (SOEL), THE TAMILNADU DR AMBEDKAR LAW UNIVERSITY CHENNAI

BEST CITATION – JAYASETHURAM K, TOXICOLOGICAL EVIDENCE IN FORENSIC PHARMACOLOGY: LEGAL AND SCIENTIFIC INTERFACES IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (4) OF 2026, PG. 849-855, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract

A Comparative Legal and Scientific Analysis Jurisdictions: India | United States | United Kingdom

Toxicological evidence plays a pivotal role in forensic pharmacology, particularly in criminal investigations involving poisoning, drug-related offenses, and unexplained deaths. This research paper explores the scientific and legal dimensions of toxicological evidence, evaluating its admissibility, reliability, and application in criminal trials. Through an interdisciplinary approach encompassing case laws, statutory provisions, and comparative legal analysis across India, the United States, and the United Kingdom, this paper investigates how courts assess expert toxicological testimony, the impact of advancements in pharmacological testing, and challenges in interpretation. The study highlights real-world case studies, examines the evolving role of forensic toxicologists, and advocates for standardized protocols, enhanced cross-disciplinary training, and stronger legal safeguards to ensure justice.

Keywords: Forensic Toxicology, Criminal Justice, Expert Testimony, Daubert Standard, Evidence Law, Pharmacology, Postmortem Analysis, Chain of Custody, Legal Standards