When is an expert not an expert? Question time for expert psychiatric witnesses

Abstract

SummaryAlthough medical experts are valued in the administration of justice, the cases in the UK of Meadow and others, including most recently Pool, have all contributed to understandable anxiety on the part of doctors who carry out court work. This article uses an in-depth analysis of these cases and details of some other medical regulatory cases to draw out some lessons for potential medical expert witnesses. Although the most recent judgment in Pool leaves a number of unanswered questions, steps are identified that may be taken to reduce the risk of regulatory investigation by the General Medical Council.