Forensic nursing is an innovative and evolving nursing specialty that seeks to address healthcare issues that have a medicolegal component. Although forensic nursing has been practiced informally by nurses in various sectors for many years, it has only recently been recognized formally in response to an increasing level of sophistication in identifying its unique body of knowledge (Hammer et al., 2013).

The forensic sciences are used around the world to resolve civil disputes, to justly enforce criminal laws and government regulations, and to protect public health. Forensic scientists may be involved anytime when an objective, scientific analysis is needed to find the truth and to seek justice in a legal proceeding (American Academy of Forensic Sciences, 2010).

The purpose of our Chapter, is to practice and promote the profession of forensic nursing in national and international settings (as taken from the IAFN Articles of Incorporation).

The mission of the IAFN is to provide leadership in forensic nursing practice by developing, promoting, and disseminating information internationally about forensic nursing science.