Short answer: As early as possible, ideally as soon as the brief of evidence shows the prosecution relies on phone data, location records or video. Triage Forensics specialises in mobile phone forensics, deleted message recovery, location timeline reconstruction, call detail record analysis and video authentication for the defence.
For an overview of these services, see digital forensics for criminal defence lawyers. This page covers the practical side of briefing an expert.
Why early matters
- Disclosure takes time. If the review shows that extraction data or source files are missing, you need time to request them.
- Devices change. If your client’s own phone holds helpful evidence, preserving it early protects it.
- Strategy depends on it. Knowing whether location or message evidence can be challenged may shape decisions well before trial.
What to send
- The prosecution’s forensic extraction reports and any accompanying data files.
- Call charge or call detail records and any cell tower mapping relied on.
- Relevant video files, in the form they were disclosed.
- Statements from the prosecution’s experts or analysts.
- Your client’s device, if it’s relevant and available.
Questions worth asking the expert
- Is the disclosed extraction complete, or is data missing?
- Was the extraction method appropriate for this device?
- Does the location evidence support the precision the prosecution claims?
- Are there messages, deletions or app records that suggest a different explanation?
- Is the video footage original, and is it complete?
What you receive
An independent written report addressing your questions, drafted to comply with the applicable expert witness code of conduct, and oral evidence at trial if required. The report gives our honest opinion, including where the prosecution’s evidence holds up, so you can make informed decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What does Triage Forensics specialise in for criminal defence?
Mobile phone forensics, deleted message recovery, location timeline reconstruction, video authentication and call detail record analysis.
How does an independent expert help the defence?
By challenging the completeness of disclosure, testing extraction methodology, re-examining how location data has been interpreted, and providing counter-expert evidence at trial.
Getting started
Contact Triage Forensics with the key dates in your matter and a summary of the digital evidence, and we’ll confirm scope and timing.