Download or read book ETHICS IN FORENSIC SCIENCE AND MEDICINE written by Melvin A. Shiffman and published by Charles C Thomas Publisher. This book was released on 1999-01-01 with total page 327 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book provides an invaluable source of information for physicians and forensic scientists who are involved as expert witnesses in civil and criminal litigation. Manipulative and opportunistic lawyers can lead an unsuspecting scientific expert into a potentially dangerous situation that could result in personal embarrassment, professional organizational disciplinary action, or even formal legal charges. Areas of ethical behavior are identified for the forensic witness concerning their relationships with attorneys, other experts, and litigants. Specific topics include: (1) selection, regulation, and duties of the forensic expert; (2) litigation and legal matters, unethical conduct, fees, advertising, and publicity; (3) oral testimony, the expert-client relationship, confidentiality, contractural arrangements, scientific and demonstrative evidence; (4) practical issues for attorney preparation and the qualities and attitudes of medical experts. In addition, forensic aspects of alcoholism and drug abuse plus the use and abuse of forensic sciences are discussed, with an entire chapter devoted to the O. J. Simpson case. Finally, the book thoroughly emphasizes the importance of the Ethical Medicolegal Report and the Code of Professional and Ethical Conduct.