Becoming an Expert Witness: Perspectives from a Psychologist and an Attorney

Professional psychologists have broad-based training in the science and practice of psychology. Specialized training in assessment and treatment of mental health problems, knowledge of assorted psychological constructs (e.g., memory), and knowledge of psychometric considerations underlying the measurement of constructs results in psychologists being of significant utility to the courts. Being an expert witness demands specialized knowledge and training that is rarely offered in doctoral and post-doctoral education and training. Participants in this seminar will learn the role and functions of a psychological expert witness and how non-forensic practice differs from forensic practice as an evaluator and potential expert witness. Information about the assorted court systems (Federal vs assorted state courts; criminal, civil, and family courts) will be presented as will considerations for effective expert witness testimony across court systems and jurisdictions. This joint presentation by a psychologist and an attorney is intended to provide a balanced perspective on the fundamentals of expert witness testimony.