Isaac Ray's Advice to Medical Witnesses: Still Relevant?
American Journal of Forensic Psychiatry, Volume 28, Issue 2, 2007
15 Pages Posted: 3 Dec 2012
Date Written: 2007
Abstract
In honor of Dr. Isaac Ray’s two hundredth birthday, this article examines the advice he gave to prospective psychiatric expert witnesses in mid-nineteenth century. Ray, an American Psychiatric Association founder and father of American forensic psychiatry, made many contributions to psychiatry and its applications to legal settings. Using Ray’s own words, the author illustrates how the “hints” to witnesses retain their freshness today. Ray’s comments include his calling for education in medical jurisprudence, a firm knowledge of mental functioning in health and disease, and a warning that forensic work is not for dabblers. His concern for the integrity of professionals who work within the legal arena is a beacon for all practitioners today.
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