More than half a century of expert history

The “Expertise Center of the Republic of Armenia” state non-profit organization is a specialized body conducting forensic examinations, the history of which dates back to the middle of the last century.

The beginning : a forensic science research laboratory

The initial model of the center was formed in 1959, when a forensic science research laboratory was established at Yerevan State University by Resolution No. 149 of the Government of the Soviet Republic of Armenia of April 25, 1959.

The laboratory carried out its activities in two main directions:

  • Carrying out scientific research in the field of criminalistics and forensic expertise,
  • as well as performing forensic examinations for law enforcement agencies and courts.

This laboratory became the foundation upon which the institutional structure of Armenia’s forensic examination system was later built.

Analytical and legal development (1966–1971)

In 1966, the laboratory was transferred to the jurisdiction of the Legal Committee of the Council of Ministers of the Armenian SSR, which was due to the growing role of forensic examinations and the need for their legal regulation.

Later, since 1980, the laboratory operated as a state institution under the name “Scientific Research Laboratory of Forensic Expertise of the Ministry of Justice of the Armenian SSR”, under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Justice. This was a qualitatively new stage, when forensic expertise was firmly included in the structure of the justice system.

The phase of independent Armenia and the reorganization process

After the independence of the Republic of Armenia, the modernization and institutional strengthening of the forensic examination system became one of the important state issues.

By the decision of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia No. 534 of September 25, 1996, the Scientific Research Laboratory of Forensic Expertise of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia was restructured into the state institution “Expertise Center of the Republic of Armenia”.
This change aimed to:

  • to coordinate forensic examinations within a single structure,
  • improve the organization of expert activities,
  • and ensure high professional standards.

State Non-Profit Organization (2002–2003)

By the decision of the Government of the Republic of Armenia No. 1933 of November 23, 2002, the State Institution “Expertise Center of the Republic of Armenia” was reorganized into the State Non-Commercial Organization (SNCO) “Expertise Center of the Republic of Armenia”.

The organization received state registration on January 7, 2003 and has been operating as a state non-profit organization since that day, maintaining its main mission:

  • to provide high-level expert studies,
  • to support the administration of justice through professional and objective judicial examinations,
  • develop and improve expert methodology and scientific approaches.

The Expert Center today

Currently, the “Expertise Center of the Republic of Armenia” SNCO is one of the leading state institutions in the field of expertise in the Republic of Armenia. Continuing its historical path for more than half a century, the Center combines rich experience, scientific thinking and modern professional standards, ensuring high quality, accuracy and compliance with international standards of expertise.

  • In recent years, the Center has undergone intensive development:
    • being equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technical means ,
    expanding its departments and areas of activity ,
    attracting the best and most highly qualified specialists ,
    as well as applying innovative methodologies .

Today, the Center conducts unique and highly complex examinations that are carried out exclusively at this Center, making it an indispensable and exclusive expert platform for the country.

The center is also distinguished by its regional significance:
it is considered the best expert organization in the region , combining advanced technologies, international approaches, and a high level of expertise.

The principles of rule of law, objectivity, independence, and professional responsibility are firmly established at the heart of the Center’s activities. These values ​​shape our mission to provide scientifically sound, impartial, and highly reliable expertise, support the justice system, and strengthen public trust in the field of expertise.

Today, the Center not only reflects the stable foundations of its historical path, but also serves as a driving force in the field, introducing innovative solutions and enhancing the quality of expert services both in Armenia and in the region.