6 Hours | 6 CEs

This self-paced training program on Ethical and Effective Expert Witness is presented by Joel Dvoskin, PhD, ABPP.

This program addresses the provision of expert psychological testimony in the courtroom.  Topics include use of humor as an expert witness; how to deal with discourteous opposing counsel;  how to give good answers to bad questions; the importance of humility; legal rules governing the admissibility of expert testimony; preparing for depositions; the myth of the “objective” expert; learning from opposing counsel; and ultimate issue testimony.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course you will be able to:

  • Describe the pros and cons of recording interviews

  • Describe at least one difference between an expert witness and a maggot eating at a wound

  • Describe the importance of humility in serving as an expert witness

  • Describe the value of transparency and showing one’s work

  • Describe the most important meaning of Frye and Daubert

  • Describe how to respond to compound questions

  • Describe how to approach expert testimony with increased confidence and humility

Presented By

Joel Dvoskin, PhD, ABPP

Dr. Joel Dvoskin is the former Acting Commissioner of Mental Health for the State of New York, and the former Chair of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Behavioral Health for the State of Nevada. He served as President of 2 APA Divisions (Psychologists in Public Service and the American Psychology Law Society). He currently serves on the faculty of the University of Arizona College of Medicine and had provided expert testimony and consultation services across the US and Canada. He testifies frequently in a variety of forensic contexts including individual and class actions, as well as criminal and civil matters.

  • Intended Audience

    This self-paced course is intended for mental health and other allied professionals.

  • Experience Level

    This self-paced course is appropriate for beginner, intermediate, and advanced level clinicians.

  • CE / CPD Credit

    APA, ASWB, CPA, NBCC Click here for state and other regional board approvals.

Curriculum

  • 1

    Overview

    • Overview
  • 2

    Lesson 1

    • Lesson 1 Video

    • On Being an Expert Witness: It's not about you

    • Lesson Quiz

  • 3

    Lesson 2

    • Lesson 2 Video

    • Temptations for the Expert Witness

    • Lesson Quiz

  • 4

    Lesson 3

    • Lesson 3 Video

    • Harnessing the Science of Persuasion for Expert Witness Testimony

    • Cognitive Bias in Forensic Mental Health Assessment

    • Lesson Quiz

  • 5

    Lesson 4

    • Lesson 4 Video

    • Lesson Quiz

  • 6

    Course Evaluation

    • Course Evaluation

Develop a Specialty Area of Practice

Transforming mental health professionals into experts

  • Expert Instructors

    Professional training developed and delivered by the field's leading experts

  • CE Credit

    Earn CE credit for meaningful professional training that will elevate your practice

  • Convenience & Flexibility

    Learn at your own pace, from wherever you might be!

Looking to train a group?

Custom training options for groups of 5 to 500+

Contact us to talk about group training rates and how we can make annual training and new staff onboarding simple!
Find out More