Official Site of The State of New Jersey

Forensic science is a powerful tool in the pursuit of justice—but only when grounded in reliable, scientifically validated methods. The Forensic Science Unit at the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender (NJOPD) works to ensure that forensic evidence presented in court is accurate, credible, and fair.

Who We Are

Established by Public Defender Jennifer Sellitti and led by Deputy Public Defender Tamar Lerer, our Forensic Science Unit was created to challenge the use of unproven or misleading forensic techniques in the courtroom. The misuse of forensic science in the courtroom can lead to wrongful convictions and have devastating consequences on people’s lives.

The Forensic Science Unit holds forensic evidence to the high legal standards that New Jersey requires by:

• Engaging with trial and appellate public defenders using up-to-date research on forensic issues.
• Promoting best practices and upholding national standards of scientific rigor for evidence in criminal cases.
• Conducting training on forensic issues.
• Remaining at the forefront of emerging technologies, such as digital surveillance and algorithmic software, through collaboration with scientists and lawyers from around the country.