Psychiatric oral evidence training materials
These materials were developed to address a gap in psychiatric training: while many psychiatrists are required to give evidence in court, most existing courses are privately run and fee-based. This course provides a free, structured set of materials and case scenarios, enabling psychiatrists to practise explaining psychiatric concepts and responding to cross-examination in a mock court setting, with the aim of improving confidence and the quality of evidence given.
The course is currently delivered every two months to trainees in London and the South East of England. All materials are made freely available to support wider access to training and professional development.
This training provides the materials and structure for psychiatrists to practice and develop their skills in giving oral evidence in a low-stress environment. It is designed to be of use to psychiatrists with a variety of experience, levels of interest, and time to devote to preparation. We are aware that many of those taking part will otherwise have busy clinical roles, and may not have the time to read the reports in detail and consider case law.
This should not be an obstacle to taking part. The primary purpose is to provide a framework for explaining psychiatric concepts in a mock court setting, which does not require significant preparation, although additional suggested reading has been provided for those with the time and interest to engage with it. However, a lack of time to carefully study of all the reports and training materials should not be an obstacle to participation: reading the introduction and reports should be sufficient.
Introduction, course structure and advice on preparation
Case 1: A case of attempted rape, with questions about the defendant's diagnosis and fitness to plead.
Case 2: A case of homicide, raising diagnostic questions and the availability of defences of insanity and manslaughter by diminished responsibility.
Case 3: A case of GBH in a defendant with neurodevelopmental disorders. Fitness to plead is considered in the initial reports, and his capacity to form intent in the addenda.
Case 4: A case of GBH for a defendant awaiting sentencing. Diagnosis is considered, and appropriate disposal under the Mental Health Act.
Case 5: A case of homicide in which a defence of manslaughter by diminished responsibility due to a diagnosis of PTSD has been raised.
Case 6: A case of GBH in a man with a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder who is awaiting sentencing.
Authors and acknowledgements
Authors
Hector Blott, Eleanor Hind and Richard Latham.
Acknowledgements
With thanks to those who gave up their time to deliver pilot training days and provided feedback on the case materials: Christian Brown, Bernard Chin, Jon Fitzgerald, Nicholas Hallett and Bianca Igna.