"The authors of this practical book are of the opinion that there are many aspects of the interpretation of blood traces that are of concern and have not been treated with the thought or caution that should be afforded them and that existing texts do not sufficiently emphasize the need for interpretations to be made by experienced scientists with strict adherence to the scientific method. At present there are no science-based higher education requirements for bloodstain pattern analysts, although efforts are underway in the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSACs) and the American Standards Board (ASB) of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS). Thus, this text addresses that situations involving the interpretation of blood trace configurations are often very complex and the difficulties faced in rendering conclusions in this area are among the most scientifically challenging of those in any area of forensic science. It aims to provide an understanding of the scientific basis for the use of blood trace deposits (e.g. bloodstain patterns) at crime scenes to better interpret a criminal event. Three key features that will be valuable to the reader are: To provide fundamental principles for the scientific examination and understanding of blood trace deposits and configurations, within the framework of a holistic crime scene investigation. To dispel commonly accepted misinformation about blood traces. To provide valuable illustrative case examples which will aid in demonstrating concepts discussed throughout the book"-- Provided by publisher.