Forensic Testimony: Science, Law and Expert Evidence
"Forensic Testimony: Science, Law and Expert Witness Testimony by C. Michael Bowers, DDS, JD is an excellent resource for any forensic expert who is interested in or is called upon to provide testimony in a court of law. It is an invaluable guide for both newcomers and professionals alike. As a lawyer and expert witness who has testified and examined hundreds of cases, Dr. Bowers' knowledge and insight into both arenas of the courtroom is evident. The text includes a thorough overview of what a prospective expert should be aware of regarding the legal system and how forensic evidence should be prepared for courtroom presentation. The chapters cover topics such as the admissibility of forensic expert evidence, character traits of expert witnesses, voir dire and direct examination of the expert, cross examination - the expert's challenge and the lawyer's strategies. The text also includes an insightful exploration into the science behind forensic science, ethics and forensic expert failures. (Mary Bush, DDS, Associate Professor, Department of Restorative Dentistry, University at Buffalo)"The book is especially relevant to someone just beginning their journey into a forensic science discipline and is a must read for a forensic expert who has never testified before. It also is a good reminder for seasoned experts, both government and privately contracted. Science in the court room is, by its nature, different from science in a laboratory. Generally, neither jurors, judges, nor lawyers are well versed in science and assisting them in such understanding can be challenging.Forensic Testimonygives insight into some of the challenges a forensic expert will face in the courtroom including whether or not their opinion will ultimately be admitted in court, the need to be prepared to have the evidence to back up their opinions, the likely stresses of cross-examination, the need to be personable and neutral, and even guidelines on how to dress for court (Chapters 3, 5-8). Overall, this book should ease the mind of the honest forensic expert and assist in their ability to become, and continue to be, an effective expert witness." (Alissa L. Bjerkhoel, J.D., Staff Attorney at the California Innocence Project, California Western School of Law.)