Mastering the Science of Evidence
The Cyril H. Wecht Institute of Forensic Science and Law, founded at Duquesne University in 2000, is an internationally recognized center for interdisciplinary education and training in applied forensic science. Dedicated to advancing public safety and the pursuit of legal and social justice, the Institute connects students, professionals and the public with thought leaders in forensic science and law through impactful programming and research.
Through strong collaborations with Duquesne’s Schools of Science and Engineering, Law and Nursing—as well as a global network of practitioner and scholar experts—the Institute promotes a comprehensive, real-world understanding of forensic principles and their ethical and cultural implications.
In partnership with the University’s Master of Science in Forensic Science and Law program, the Institute offers a unique interdisciplinary approach that bridges science, law, and ethics—preparing the next generation of professionals to address complex challenges in criminal justice and beyond.
Throughout the year, the Institute hosts a variety of events and continuing education opportunities, including:
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Annual Forensic Science and Law Symposium
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Forensic Fridays, a professional education seminar series
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Ethics for Breakfast, an ethics-focused CLE series
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Specialized workshops and training programs for professional audiences
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and more
Defending the Indefensible
From cases like O. J. Simpson and the Menendez brothers to high-profile local defendants, one question endures: How can anyone represent them? This program examines the ethical responsibilities of criminal defense attorneys—from safeguarding client confidentiality and ensuring evidence integrity to navigating the tension between personal morality and professional duty. It also explores the attorney’s role at the appellate level, including when a case may be deemed “frivolous.” This program is approved for 2 hours of Ethics CLE credit.
Hear From Dr. Wecht
Forensic science has made a great impact on our pursuits in criminal and civil justice, but if we are to become more effective in our "search for the truth," we must inform and involve other professionals and their specialties as well.
Registration and Fees
Registration Overview
Institute programs are offered either virtually or in a hybrid format, with no differences in registration fees. If given an option, please be sure to select your intended mode of attendance, as well as the relevant registrant category. Full-time members of the DU community may register free of charge for all events via%20email. (Those seeking CLE or other continuing education credits will be assessed an administrative fee to help the Institute cover its costs.)
Registration Fees
In calculating the fees you will find in our online registration form, the Institute is currently using the following hourly fee structure:
- CLE - Private Attorneys - $30/hr.
- CLE – Govt./NP Attorneys - $25/hr.
- CME - $30/hr.
- Coroners - $15/hr.
- General Public - $10/hr.
- Non-DU Students - $5/hr.
Discounts:
- Special discount offers that may apply to any given program will appear in the corresponding item in our registration form. If registering as a member of a discounted group, be prepared to provide any required documentation at check-in.
DU Community:
- There are no fees for fulltime members of the Duquesne University community (students, faculty and staff), who are asked to register by contacting us at wechtinstituteFREEDUQUESNE or 412-396-1514.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations for full refunds (minus a $25 service fee) may be made by contacting the Institute in writing prior to 24 hours before the start of any given program. After that time, no refunds will be offered.
Contact Us Directly
For information on our programs, reduced pricing on registration or to subscribe to our mailing list.
