Mass spectrometry (MS) is a technique widely used in forensic science for the identification of molecular or elemental composition of submitted evidence. Relatively small, volatile, nonpolar molecules, such as ignitable liquids and some drugs, can be analyzed with electron and chemical ionization (CI) coupled with single‐stage mass analyzers that provide molecular weight and structural information. Nonvolatile and polar molecules such as other drugs, poisons, and/or their metabolites can be identified using electrospray or related soft ionization techniques. The use of tandem MS with these compounds allows structure elucidation and provides excellent screening and quantitative results. Ambient ionization sources allow sampling directly from a surface with minimal sample preparation required. Elemental profiles also provide reliable methods for distinguishing between forensic samples. This article aims to provide an overview of the MS instrumentation, techniques, and applications within the field of forensic science.