LEGAL
Who may issue a search warrant?
Judge, Magistrate or Clerk of Court
A document that is advisory in nature and contains only non-mandatory provisions?
Guide
Lowest temperature of a liquid, as determined by specific laboratory tests, at which the liquid gives off vapors at sufficient rate to support a momentary flame across its surfact
Flashpoint
A transition phase in the development of a compartment fire in which surfaces exposed to thermal radiation reach ignition temp.
One who is recognized by a court as qualified by special knowledge, skills experiences or education on an issue
Expert Witness
Crime that carries a penalty of one year or more in prison
Felony
refers to the loss, destruction, or material altercation of an object or document that is of evidentiary value in a legal proceeding by one who has the responsibility for its preservation.
Spoliation
The lowest temperature at which a liquid produces a vapor that can continue to burn in air after its vapors have been ignited. Usually a few degrees higher than flashpoint.
Fire Point
Ratio of vapors in air at molecular level
Vapor Density
Any type of written record relevant to a case
Documentary
Code Section: Burning of a dwelling house to include any occupied dwelling, including hotels, hospitals, etc
18.2-77
Empirical data
Combustible
A rapid oxidation process, which is a chemical reaction resulting in the evolution of light and heat at varying intensities
Fire
Verbal testimony of a witness given under oath
Testimonial
Burning of any structure, intent to defraud insurance or another person-Code Section
18.2-80
Process by which hypotheses are developed based upon observable or know facts and the training, experience, knowledge and expertise of the observer
Inductive reasoning
certain elements, particularly white phosphorus, sodium, potassium, and finely divided metals, such as zirconium, plutonium, Uranium, or Iron sulfide, when exposed to air at or below 54 degrees C
Pyrophoric Materials
A form of energy characterized by vibration of molecules and capable of initiating and supporting chemical changes and changes in state
Heat
Any type of tangible evidence relevant to a case
Demonstrative
In Virginia what is the first court of record
Circuit Court
The visible or measurable physical changes, or identifiable shapes, formed by a fire effect or group of fire effects
Fire Patterns
Insufficient reaction of surface area
Insufficient oxygen concentration or diffusion
Ambient temperature too low
Insufficient insulation-heat dissipates
Insufficient material
Conditions needed for spontaneous ignition to occur in materials capable of self-heating
A deflagration resulting from the sudden introduction of air into a confined space containing oxygen-deficient products of incomplete combustion
Backdraft
Must release items of information upon request from an appropriate agency
Arson Immunity Act