Forensic archeology is the application of archeological principles and methodologies to locate and recover evidence within the boundaries of the criminal justice system or for use in civil lawsuits. There are three basic objects of a forensic archeological investigation: comprehension and interpretation of the taphonomic event (the history of a site after it has been created through the deposition of remains); reconstruction of the events leading up to and occurring along with the creation of the site and deposition of the body; and informed interpretation of the events surrounding the deposition of the deceased individual. Forensic archeological investigations are conducted in three general stages: reconnaissance, survey, and excavation. Once the site has been located and mapped, excavation may begin. Forensic archeological investigations are integral to a diverse array of situational contexts, with the singular objective to recover and resolve (recovery of the physical evidence and eventual resolution of the legal issues).