Whilst we do not recommend using a standard template for the preparation of a psychology medico legal report, we can make some recommendations as to what they should contain.  This information is based on the fact that we provide in excess of 500 psychology medico legal reports to a wide range of clients per annum....

A Psychology Expert Witness is a qualified Psychologist who has become an Expert in their field by undertaking specialist training, additional study or gained extensive experience within a particular area.  Examples of suitable criteria for validating the competence of a Psychology Expert Witness may include: - Relevant graduate and/or post-graduate qualifications specific to the case in...

Fitness to Plead in the Crown Court (Archbold 4-166a to 4-185) The purpose of this procedure is to strike a fair balance between the need to protect a defendant, who has, in fact, done nothing wrong but is unfit to plead at his trial, and the need to protect the public from a defendant who has...

There are many ways that solicitors, courts, insurance companies, employers or private individuals can find an Expert Witness. However, the most important factor to consider before selecting an Expert Witness, is what type of Expert Witness is most appropriate to undertake the medico-legal report that is required.  This is best discussed with a solicitor as there...

We are often contacted by clients who are not sure if they need a psychologist or a psychiatrist.  Much of our role is to understand the details of each client's particular requirements and provide guidance as to which type of Mental Health Professional, or indeed other type of professional, is most suitable.  The information below...

The Office of Fair Trading has spent the last 9 months conducting a wide reaching review of the Private Healthcare market in the UK.  As a result of this review they have provisionally decided to refer the sector to the Competition Commission for the following reasons: "There is a lack of...

We are pleased to announce the launch of TherapyWeb, a sister site to Psychology Direct. This new online directory of Psychological & Physical Therapists is designed to help members of the public and health professionals find registered health professionals in their area. Unlike many generic directories TherapyWeb is specialised in the healthcare sector and aims...

Choosing the right Expert for your client's assessment or treatment can be a very difficult business.  When looking for an Expert Psychologist is it important to ensure that they are suitable qualified to undertake the task in question.  Examples of criteria for validating the competence of a Psychology Expert may include: - Relevant graduate and post-graduate...

At a time when regular work flow is crucial, it is becoming more and more important to communicate your skill set effectively in order to give yourself the best possible chance of securing regular referrals from agencies, solicitors, case management companies and corporations. We often get asked; ‘How do I write my Expert Witness CV’ or...

We see dozens of letters of instruction to experts every week and know only too well that a well written, clear letter can make a huge difference to the time, cost and quality of a report that the solicitor receives from an expert witness. Whilst solicitors are experts in the law, it can sometimes be difficult...