Courtroom Modifications for Child Witnesses: Law and Science in Forensic Evaluations

This book is aimed at mental health professionals who perform forensic evaluations of child witnesses in cases of alleged maltreatment in order to determine whether to recommend courtroom modifications. Authors Susan R. Hall and Bruce D. Sales consider, from both legal and psychological standpoints, courtroom modifications such as allowing supportive adults in the witness box and allowing hearsay exemptions. The legal implications of more controversial practices such as using screens to shield the witness from the defendant, and using remote or videotaped depositions or testimony are also discussed. Finally, the authors review current research on trauma, PTSD, fear, anxiety, and depression in children who allegedly have been abused, and examine the implications for child testimony. The nuanced analysis in this book provides mental health and legal professionals with the expert guidance they need when making crucial forensic judgments.