Introduction. One of the tasks assigned to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation is to analyse the criminogenic situation and forecast crime. In solving this task, the achievements of various sciences are used, including criminalistics, which, based on the results of research, not only provides options for the possible development of certain criminal events, but also makes it possible to develop forecasts in the field of improving forensic means and methods of combating crime. Methods. The methodological basis of the study is based on dialectical, logical, systemic, as well as a number of other methods of scientific cognition: analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, comparison, generalisation, description. The historical method played a significant role. Results. The analysis of scientific literature indicates the most notable stages of formation of the private theory of forensic forecasting, as well as the results achieved by forensic scientists in its development. The existing scientific approaches to the system of the theory of criminalistic forecasting are demonstrated; its theoretical and practical significance is substantiated, as well as the need for further theoretical development taking into account modern achievements and development of the general theory and other sections of criminology. Modern tasks in the field of forensic forecasting are formulated.