Simply Forensic Reference Library
Class Characteristics
Fingerprints, Firearms & Pattern Evidence
Definition. Features shared by objects in a particular class because of design, manufacture, composition or other common properties.
How the term is used
They may support group associations or exclusions, but generally cannot distinguish among all members of the class.
Forensic example
Many shoes of the same model and size have the same outsole design.
Interpretation limitation
Class characteristic agreement cannot uniquely identify a particular shoe.
References and further reading
NIST OSAC forensic terminology. The explanation and example are original educational summaries; consult the cited material and current laboratory guidance for authoritative application.