Relationship with the Attorney
This chapter is about establishing a clear, productive attorney–expert relationship that sets the stage for good testimony. As clinicians and scientists, we are accustomed to being in control of how we share information. In our classrooms and consultation rooms, we orchestrate “what” and “how” information is shared. As expert witnesses in the courtroom, however, others are in control of the process. The idea of walking into a courtroom without first establishing a clear, precise plan with the attorney who is orchestrating the information exchange should be a very unsettling proposition. The chapter also frames the benefits of establishing a good working relationship with attorneys as a “two-way street.” Ideally, attorneys educate neuropsychologists and psychologists about the legal issues at hand, specific questions the expert will be asked to address, and the rules of testimony in the jurisdiction where the case is being heard. At the same time, neuropsychologists and psychologists educate attorneys about how we can contribute to understanding complex psychological and neuropsychological issues in cases. Together, a complex game plan for exchanging information during a trial is orchestrated.