Giving evidence.
BACKGROUND
The Australian civil and criminal court systems are adversarial. They are based on the concept of two opposing sides, one eventually becoming the 'winner' as determined by a neutral/independent judge. Doctors are often requested to present evidence on behalf of one of the 'sides', although it is imperative that their evidence remains unbiased or bipartisan. For most doctors, attending court is infrequent, perhaps contributing to the fear associated with being summonsed.


OBJECTIVE
This article provides information and skills training for doctors on how to be 'expert witnesses' and giving evidence in court.


CONCLUSIONS
With a good understanding of the issues involved and the provision of evidence, attending court may be made easier for doctors. Prior knowledge of the system and adequate preparation of the case is important in ensuring the medical evidence is both admissible and weighted correctly.
Williams
Angela
A
Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Victoria. angelac@vifm.org
D001315:Australia; D003406:Credentialing; D005104:Expert Testimony / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000379:methods*; D005194:Family Practice / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans