Professional v. Expert Witness

[Teenwolf]

As the subject line states, what is the difference?

Would a General Practitioner qualify as an expert medical witness or would the term "expert" be reserved for a specialized medical doctor?

[penniless]

I know in my trial a doctor, a General Practitioner was called to testify about mental issues, and he himself deemed himself not an expert.

I think its a slippery slope concerning a gp, because they know a little about everything, but aren't a specialist anywhere. Thus i don't think they can classify themselves as an expert, or even a court will, unless they specifically specialized in the field of medicine, that you want to know questions about.

[Tayken]

As the subject line states, what is the difference?

Would a General Practitioner qualify as an expert medical witness or would the term "expert" be reserved for a specialized medical doctor?

A Family Practitioner (there are few General Practitioners of medicine left) is not an "expert" by definition. They can't technically claim expertise in any field of medicine other than Family Practice.

If a FP is called to testify they are called as character witnesses and on cross examination the first 3 questions will establish that.

Good Luck!
Tayken

[Teenwolf]

Thanks Tayken!