Medical-Forensic Expert Witness
For the defense
Medical-forensic evidence is often asked to prove more than it can. An independent second opinion tells you where a finding has been over-read, and just as important, where it hasn't. You need both to assess the medical evidence accurately.
An independent second opinion
A credible, neutral medical expert can be hard to find on short notice, and a second opinion that merely confirms a preferred conclusion will not withstand scrutiny. I read the medical evidence the same way regardless of who retains me, which is what makes the opinion defensible in court.
Much of the medical-forensic evidence in these cases is genuinely limited: a normal exam is common, "no marks" doesn't mean "no strangulation," a bruise generally can't be dated by its color, and "diagnostic of abuse" is often stated too strongly. Where those overreaches exist, I'll show you. Where they don't, I'll tell you that too, early enough to matter.
What I provide the defense
- Second-opinion review. Independent read of records, examination documentation, imaging, and the literature.
- Overreach identification. Exactly where a finding has been stated past what the evidence supports.
- Written expert report. Defensible, literature-grounded, and stated only to the certainty the evidence allows.
- Cross-examination support. The medical questions that matter, and where the opposing opinion reaches past the evidence.
- Deposition & trial testimony. CONUS and OCONUS, in plain language for a jury.
How it starts
Tell me the jurisdiction and the question. I confirm there's no conflict and that it's a question I'm qualified to answer. If it isn't, I'll say so. The same standard, same rate, regardless of side. Reviewing the other side of a case? See for the prosecution.
Common questions
For the defense FAQ
Will you say the medical evidence is weak if it isn't?
No. I give you an honest read, which is what makes the read worth having. If the state's medical evidence is sound, you need to know that early. If it has been over-read, I will show you exactly where and why, and that opinion is limited to what the record and the literature support.
Do you provide second opinions in abusive head trauma cases?
Yes. I review pediatric and abusive head trauma cases against the current literature, including the areas where that literature remains debated, and I identify which conclusions the evidence supports and which it does not.
What can you provide for the defense?
An independent second-opinion review, identification of where a finding has been overstated, a written expert report, support for cross-examination of the state's medical witnesses, and deposition and trial testimony, CONUS and OCONUS, subject to a conflict and fit check.
Contact
Discuss a case.
Tell me the jurisdiction and the question you need answered. I'll tell you if I'm the right person for it. If I'm not, I'll say so.
info@firstdoknowharm.comInquiries only. Please don't send privileged or protected material until we've confirmed there's no conflict and agreed how to proceed.