Lived Experiences of a Forensic Ballistics Examiner in Firearm Evidence Examination: A Phenomenological Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.23100731Keywords:
forensic ballistics, firearm evidence examination, phenomenology, professional judgment, occupational challenges, criminal justice systemAbstract
Despite the important role of firearm evidence examination in criminal investigation and judicial proceedings, limited research has examined the lived professional experiences of forensic ballistics examiners in the Philippine setting. This study explored how practicing examiners experienced firearm evidence examination, the challenges they encountered, their perceptions of the profession’s nature and demands, the coping and adaptive strategies they used, the influence of experience on professional practice and decision-making, and the meanings they attached to their role in the criminal justice system. A qualitative phenomenological design was employed with two practicing forensic ballistics examiners from the Puerto Princesa City Forensic Unit and the Palawan Provincial Forensic Unit. Participants were purposively selected because they were the only practicing firearm examiners in the two units who met the study criteria. Data were gathered through in-depth, semi-structured interviews, audio-recorded with consent, transcribed verbatim, and examined through narrative analysis. Findings showed that firearm evidence examination is a case-driven professional responsibility requiring technical competence, attention to detail, scientific objectivity, accuracy, integrity, patience, and continuous learning. Participants encountered technical, logistical, physical, organizational, and case-related pressures, yet protected examination quality through adherence to procedure, documentation, verification, time management, rest, work-life boundaries, and peer, family, and organizational support. Experience strengthened confidence and evidence-based judgment without reducing the perceived need for careful validation. The study concludes that credible firearm evidence examination integrates technical expertise with integrity, objectivity, accountability, and continuing professional development. The findings informed an experience-based Best Practices Guide for Forensic Ballistics Examiners in Firearm Evidence Examination.
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