Workshop: Forensics
A.Y. 2026/2027
Learning objectives
The course aims to analyze the discipline of evidence with a more practical approach. In particular, it will look at law cases in which evidentiary experiments were conducted also using the latest technology. The goal is to offer students a laboratory where they can experience the effects of evidentiary experiments conducted through the most advanced scientific methods including artificial intelligence.
Expected learning outcomes
After the workshop, students will be able to analyze scientific methodologies dedicated to forensic evidence.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Giudizio di approvazione
Assessment result: superato/non superato
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Learning objectives
The workshop aims to provide participants with specific skills in the forensic analysis of digital evidence generated, processed or assisted by artificial intelligence systems in criminal proceedings. Through a programme that integrates the theoretical foundations already acquired in the 'Justice by Algorithm' course with the examination of real-life cases drawn from Italian and European case law, and with practical exercises based on the UNESCO 'Global Toolkit on AI and the Rule of Law for the Judiciary' (available at https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/ pf0000387331).
The workshop aims to develop the ability to:
· conduct a critical analysis of the admissibility and usability of evidence generated or processed by algorithms;
· verify the integrity of the digital data chain of custody and the authenticity of digital evidence;
· articulate defence and prosecution arguments on issues of digital forensics, computer forensics and mobile forensics as applied to criminal proceedings;
· apply the relevant regulatory framework — from Law No. 132 of 23 September 2025 to Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 — to specific cases involving the use of AI in investigative and evidential proceedings.
Teaching methods
· Analysis and commentary on case law, with particular reference to rulings by the Court of Cassation concerning the interception of encrypted communications, the chain of custody of digital data, the seizure of IT devices as evidence, and the admissibility of algorithmic evidence
· Practical exercises on case studies drawn from UNESCO's Global Toolkit on AI and the Rule of Law for the Judiciary,
· Interactive discussion on complex scenarios involving the interaction between AI and criminal investigations
· Preparation of a presentation consisting of a critical analysis of one of the cases discussed in class.
Please note: Attendance at the 'Justice by Algorithm' course (or concurrent attendance with completion prior to the workshop's final session) is a prerequisite for admission to the workshop. Attendance at all workshop sessions is compulsory in order to achieve certification.
The workshop aims to provide participants with specific skills in the forensic analysis of digital evidence generated, processed or assisted by artificial intelligence systems in criminal proceedings. Through a programme that integrates the theoretical foundations already acquired in the 'Justice by Algorithm' course with the examination of real-life cases drawn from Italian and European case law, and with practical exercises based on the UNESCO 'Global Toolkit on AI and the Rule of Law for the Judiciary' (available at https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/ pf0000387331).
The workshop aims to develop the ability to:
· conduct a critical analysis of the admissibility and usability of evidence generated or processed by algorithms;
· verify the integrity of the digital data chain of custody and the authenticity of digital evidence;
· articulate defence and prosecution arguments on issues of digital forensics, computer forensics and mobile forensics as applied to criminal proceedings;
· apply the relevant regulatory framework — from Law No. 132 of 23 September 2025 to Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 — to specific cases involving the use of AI in investigative and evidential proceedings.
Teaching methods
· Analysis and commentary on case law, with particular reference to rulings by the Court of Cassation concerning the interception of encrypted communications, the chain of custody of digital data, the seizure of IT devices as evidence, and the admissibility of algorithmic evidence
· Practical exercises on case studies drawn from UNESCO's Global Toolkit on AI and the Rule of Law for the Judiciary,
· Interactive discussion on complex scenarios involving the interaction between AI and criminal investigations
· Preparation of a presentation consisting of a critical analysis of one of the cases discussed in class.
Please note: Attendance at the 'Justice by Algorithm' course (or concurrent attendance with completion prior to the workshop's final session) is a prerequisite for admission to the workshop. Attendance at all workshop sessions is compulsory in order to achieve certification.
Prerequisites for admission
Essential prerequisites: Completion of the 'Justice by Algorithm' course (or concurrent enrolment, provided the course is completed before the final session of the workshop).
Compulsory attendance at all workshop sessions and passing the final assessment.
Compulsory attendance at all workshop sessions and passing the final assessment.
Teaching methods
· Lectures with interactive discussion
· Analysis and commentary on case law
· Interdisciplinary seminars with experts in computer science and data science
· Group work with classroom presentations
· Compulsory attendance: Attendance at all workshop sessions is an essential requirement for passing the course. Any absences, even partial ones, must be made up in accordance with arrangements agreed with the lecturer.
· Analysis and commentary on case law
· Interdisciplinary seminars with experts in computer science and data science
· Group work with classroom presentations
· Compulsory attendance: Attendance at all workshop sessions is an essential requirement for passing the course. Any absences, even partial ones, must be made up in accordance with arrangements agreed with the lecturer.
Teaching Resources
Reference materials
· Global Toolkit on AI and the Rule of Law for the Judiciary, UNESCO, 2023 (https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000387331)
· Teaching materials for the 'Justice by Algorithm' course
· Selection of judgments from the Supreme Court
· Legislation: Law No. 132 of 23 September 2025 (with particular reference to Articles 3, 15, 24 and 26); Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 (AI Act)
· Global Toolkit on AI and the Rule of Law for the Judiciary, UNESCO, 2023 (https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000387331)
· Teaching materials for the 'Justice by Algorithm' course
· Selection of judgments from the Supreme Court
· Legislation: Law No. 132 of 23 September 2025 (with particular reference to Articles 3, 15, 24 and 26); Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 (AI Act)
Assessment methods and Criteria
Final oral examination: Individual preparation of a presentation on a case discussed in class.
Compulsory attendance: Attendance at all workshop sessions is an essential requirement for passing the course. Any absences, even partial ones, must be made up in accordance with arrangements agreed with the lecturer.
Assessment: Pass / Fail.
Compulsory attendance: Attendance at all workshop sessions is an essential requirement for passing the course. Any absences, even partial ones, must be made up in accordance with arrangements agreed with the lecturer.
Assessment: Pass / Fail.
- University credits: 3
Humanities workshop : 36 hours
Professor:
Tavassi Ludovica