Emedinews:Insights on Medicolegal Issues:Medical Testimony of Doctor in the Court of law

A doctor should not be dogmatic about his opinion, and lawyers also should not expect him to be so. He should be reasonable in his opinions and should not overstate the likelihood of a relationship between cause and effect. The doctor should be ready to defend every finding and conclusion on the report on clinical and scientific grounds in the court of law. He should be aware of professional and scientific viewpoints which might differ from his, and should be familiar with the latest scientific literature in relation to the subject involved. For the purpose of illustrating and clarifying his testimony in the court of law, the medical expert may employ photographs, maps, diagrams, charts, X–rays, skeletons, models, slides, films, tapes, etc., when they are properly verified. The doctor should avoid talking too much, talking too soon, and talking to the wrong persons. Prejudicial and sensational statements should not be made prior to trial. Courts of law are open to the public and the junior doctors should attend the Courts, where they can follow the proceedings, hear the evidence given by their senior medical colleague as a witness, to familiarize themselves with the procedures of the court of law.