Another reason this episode doesn't work is that there is no reason in the world Columbo should have invited this forensics guy to tag along. Columbo's never done it before, and he even doesn't realize this guy is involved until the meeting at the eatery.
Bad episode.
I echo what Paul said mat...very well put. The stuff about the 70's versus the 90's episodes and the fact that whole last scene with Columbo explaining the clues was totally not needed.
And John...do you think Columbo noticed a little something when they were in the lawyer's office and the forensics guy, Patrick, is leaving and there is that look between him and Mrs. Calvert......it looks like Clifford noticed something.