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. 2021 Dec;11(4):185-195.
doi: 10.1177/19253621211060961. Epub 2021 Dec 7.

Bases of Forensic Pathology Expert Testimony With Emphasis on Iowa v Tyler

Victor W Weedn

Bases of Forensic Pathology Expert Testimony With Emphasis on Iowa v Tyler

Victor W Weedn. Acad Forensic Pathol. 2021 Dec.

Abstract

Judicial scrutiny of the forensic sciences is increasing. This scrutiny targets the bases for expert opinions. Forensic pathologists must understand that when they express an opinion it must have an articulable underlying basis. Iowa v Tyler provides a cautionary tale where testimony from a forensic pathologist on the cause and manner of death based exclusively on police reports and audio and video recordings of police interviews of the suspect rather than on medical evidence were held to be inadmissible. Tyler has an odd and distinguishable set of facts, but has been widely cited as an example of problematic forensic pathology testimony.

Keywords: Expert opinion; Expert witness; Forensic pathologist; Forensic pathology; Iowa v Tyler; Testimony.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosures & Declaration of Conflicts of Interest: The author, reviewers, editors, and publication staff do not report any relevant conflicts of interest.

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