You are professor of pediatrics and an expert on child
abuse. You have been asked to serve as an expert witness for the defense in a
case. The prosecutors have hired two experts who are prepared to testify that
child abuse probably occurred. You know these experts from professional
meetings and from their published work, and you have a great deal of respect
for them. After examining the X-rays, photographs, and other data, you are not
convinced that child abuse has occurred, and you could offer testimony that
supports the defense in this case. As a long-standing advocate of child welfare
and rights, you would have a hard time testifying for the defense and
contradicting the testimony offered by your colleagues. You want to protect
your reputation, in any case. The defense will fi nd another expert if you
refuse their request. What should you do?
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