Objectives: Determination of the postmortem interval (PMI) remains a critical challenge in forensic science. Intervertebral discs, due to their structural resilience, hold promise as a reliable tissue for PMI estimation; however, studies focusing on their forensic applicability remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate progressive histopathological changes in intervertebral discs at specific postmortem intervals and assess their forensic applicability. Materials and Methods: A total of 48 rats were divided into six groups: control (0 h), 7-day, 15-day, 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day postmortem intervals. Intervertebral disc samples were stained with hematoxylin–eosin and trichrome, and histopathological parameters such as homogenization, eosinophilia, dissociation, nuclear alterations (pyknosis and karyolysis), and collagen fragmentation were analyzed. Results: Statistically significant changes were observed across postmortem intervals (p < 0.001). Homogenization progressed from mild changes at 7 days to prominent levels by 90 days. Eosinophilia and dissociation between the epithelium and connective tissue also increased significantly over time (p < 0.001). Collagen fragmentation, initially minimal, became severe at the 90-day interval. The observed changes demonstrated a clear, time-dependent progression strongly correlating with the PMI. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that histopathological changes in intervertebral discs follow a consistent and time-dependent pattern, making them a potential forensic marker for PMI estimation. This has important implications for forensic science, as it offers an alternative tissue type that is less susceptible to early decomposition compared to soft tissues. These results suggest that the intervertebral disc is a promising tissue for PMI estimation, offering a complementary approach to existing forensic methods.

Objective: We aimed to gain information about what justice mechanism expects from expert in forensic psychiatric issues and to contribute to literature by examining decisions to reverse Supreme Court based on forensic psychiatric reasons. Methods: Search was made with keywords “Forensic Medicine” and “Annulment” between 15.05.2022-30.05.2022 using Supreme Court Decision Search internet address. 2833 Supreme Court reversal decisions, which were in 2021 and concerning forensic medical issues, were analysed. Due to insufficient data shared in terms of relevant parameters, files evaluated by law offices of Supreme Court were excluded. Among decisions on 1986 file, which were examined by remaining criminal chambers of Supreme Court and general assembly, 280 reversal decisions, in which a forensic psychiatric issue was cited as a reason for reversal, were included in study. Results: In 14% (n=280) of 1986 criminal files examined by Supreme Court in 2021, at least one of reasons for legal reversal was a forensic psychiatric issue. When 280 files were examined, it was determined that first rank was violations within scope of Article 32 of the Turkish Penal Code with 207 files. When files which were decided to be reversed within scope of Article 32 are examined; most common reason (60.8%; n=126 files) was absence of any report. This shows that some people’s mental illnesses may be overlooked during trial process. Conclusion: Scanning standards expected by Court of Cassation on these issues at regular intervals will ensure a healthier progress in judicial process.

Aim: Tattoos are regarded as expressions of individual identity and art. Beyond being aesthetic elements, they have become important subjects of examination in legal proceedings, particularly gaining significance in identification processes. Additionally, tattoos warrant sociological investigation due to their broader social implications. Materials and Methods: A total of 145 Court of Cassation decisions containing the term ‘tattoo’ were identified through the Turkish Court of Cassation Decision Search Database. These decisions were thematically analyzed based on the forensic and legal contexts in which tattoos were referenced. Results: In 51.7% of the decisions, tattoos were used as tools of identification, primarily in theft, robbery, and drug-related offenses. However, among these identification-related decisions, only 25.3% included detailed tattoo descriptions. Tattoos were most commonly located on the arm and hand. In 16.6% of the cases, tattoos served as indicators of social interaction, particularly in sexual offense cases involving children. Additionally, 3.4% of the decisions included complaints related to complications following tattoo removal procedures, raising concerns regarding medical and legal oversight. Conclusion: Tattoos serve as important forensic markers in the identification and evaluation of evidence. The findings highlight the need for standardized documentation protocols in judicial processes and for the implementation of stricter oversight in tattoo removal practices to ensure legal consistency and protect individual rights.