The battered child syndrome: a forensic pathologist's viewpoint.
Most evidence in child abuse cases is circumstantial, and thus the main thrust of the defense is to create doubt, by arguing that the child did not die as a result of being beaten, or by arguing lack of intent. The pathologist will be most helpful to the case if he can give a strong opinion backed by scientific conclusions. A painstakingly detailed autopsy protocol will be of value.
D000007:Abdominal Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D000293:Adolescent; D001344:Autopsy; D001497:Battered Child Syndrome; D002543:Cerebral Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D002648:Child; D002649:Child Abuse / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D005554:Forensic Medicine; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D012253:Rib Fractures; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology