Surviving and Thriving Under Cross Examination-View Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In the forensic psychiatry seminar titled "Surviving and Thriving Under Cross-Examination," presenters Dr. Steve Nofsinger and Dr. Ashley Vandercar shared strategies to handle cross-examinations, aiming to make the experience less daunting for psychiatric professionals. Dr. Nofsinger introduced the session by outlining its objectives, which include understanding attorney tactics, counteracting cross-examination techniques, and writing forensic reports that minimize potential scrutiny. Dr. Vandercar discussed cross-examination contexts, likening it to an adversarial boxing match, and highlighted the importance of demeanor in maintaining credibility. Lawyers focus on controlling witnesses, especially through questioning that can dismantle credibility by challenging qualifications, methodology, and potential biases. The presenters emphasized the power of preparation, suggesting one must thoroughly understand case facts and anticipate potential areas of cross-examination. Effective testimony involves sticking to key points while conceding minor ones to maintain credibility. Through video examples, they demonstrated techniques like setting traps with compound or negative questions and wedge tactics. The session also addressed writing thorough reports to preempt cross-examination pitfalls and building broad, non-biased forensic practices. Finally, Nofsinger advised participants to maintain objectivity and calmness by conjuring clinical detachment used in patient care, thus ensuring effective testimony in legal settings.

Keywords

forensic psychiatry

cross-examination

Dr. Steve Nofsinger

Dr. Ashley Vandercar

attorney tactics

forensic reports

credibility

witness control

preparation

testimony techniques

report writing

objectivity

clinical detachment