Book review

  • M. R. Young
Otmoor Publishing price £60.00; pp 140 ISBN 9781910303016 | ISBN: 978-1-9103-0301-6

The general dentist, when faced with a letter of approach from a solicitor, may initially feel apprehensive and confused regarding the depth of research and content of a report. The text aims to guide the aspiring novice who wants to act as a clinical expert witness, providing a comprehensive account and practical insight into the field. The book allays uncertainty and provides a logical work through constructing a formal written report. The writing is certainly applicable across the whole medical profession.

The layout of the book is split into three sections, the first being 'Context', outlining the role and obligations of an expert witness. There is an initial element of introspection, to help the reader explore their motives for wanting to enter the world of clinical negligence. As the author expresses, witnesses must approach the work with certainty and dedication 'with proper regard to the ethical and professional principles'.

Section two is based upon 'Preparation'. The author informs the reader how to construct themselves within a business sense to communicate their distinctive features in order to establish themselves over competing clinical experts in the post-Jackson reform era. Furthermore, sections detail how to attain effective time management through rigorous preparation, note-taking with 'accuracy of meaning' and how to articulate a written report.

The book somewhat prepares the reader for cross-examination from barristers by outlining the civil litigation processes and salient points of legal tests used in clinical negligence cases.

I had approached this book having a relative lack of clinical experience, being relatively new to the dental field. Surprisingly, I regard this as a truly valuable resource to the general dental practitioner. Technical expertise is not the sole factor that makes a clinician suitable to be an expert witness; one must develop a subset of understanding with competence prior to entering the world of report writing.

The book is informative without delving into unnecessary jargon that would baffle the novice expert; thereby it instils confidence within the reader to then go on and formulate their own report(s). To supplement the text there are audio exerts available online through the publisher.

In summary, the book provides a valuable insight into the legal process of a clinical negligence case, should we ever become involved within a case representing a defendant or claimant it could make the journey a much less arduous one.