EWJ June 2024 web - Journal - Page 76
What Do You Call A ‘Group’
Of Expert Witnesses?
The three authors of Psychology and
The Law, have achieved this collection
of highly qualified psychologist expert
witnesses who work in several different
areas of medico-legal services. Perhaps
“an opinion of experts” or “an
impartiality of experts?!”
Three psychologist expert witnesses, Professors Leam
Craig, Hugh Koch and Gus Baker, have collected a
series of twenty case studies exploring the role of mental health professionals acting as expert witnesses in
regulatory, judicial and quasi-judicial proceedings covering criminal, family law, parole board hearings, military court martial, First Tier Tribunal (Mental
Health), and civil injuries in personal and medical
negligence contexts. Each chapter uses a practical case
study to illustrate the process from initial instruction
through to giving evidence in writing and in court
where experts can be cross-examined on their
psychological evidence.
The use of expert witness testimony in courts is not
new with reports of expert witnesses being used ever
since the 14th century. However, in recent years psychologist expert witnesses have regularly been used
in criminal trials, child protection and family proceedings, personal injury and medical negligence
cases. In each of these contexts, significant value is
placed upon the expert’s logical and presentational
skills and ability to prepare effectively for interaction
with lawyers, judges and other medico-legal experts.
This unique text presents the reader with an overview
of the major contribution that psychology makes to
the law, and illustrates the exciting, challenging and
demanding facets of this important area. Each of the
twenty chapters emphasises the practical aspects of
psychological inquiry within a judicial context, highlighting specific micro-skills, tips and pitfalls to those
venturing into expert witness work. The skills and
practices covered here are in line with the recommendations of the British Psychological Society,
Expert Witness Advisory Group (EWAG).
This comprehensive text will be invaluable to
undergraduate and post-graduate students of Law
and Psychology as well as qualified psychologists,
psychiatrists, lawyers, policy makers and legislators,
social workers and members of the judiciary.
Available from both Wiley and Amazon, on Wiley for
£76.99 In hardback, ISBN: 978-1-394-15575-0.
EXPERT WITNESS JOURNAL
74
JUNE 2024