REPORT WRITING SKILLS

A medico legal expert must be able to write a clear and concise report. It should contain all the facts and express independent opinions with supporting arguments and findings. It is also important to include any relevant documents. Medico legal reports are often used in court cases and must be accurate and clear.

A good medico legal report should be written in the first person, addressing it to an intelligent lay reader and using straightforward language. Avoid medical jargon and abbreviations, and explain any technical terms and tests. Medico legal experts should also clearly state their reasons for making clinical judgments in the report.

All experts who provide medico-legal reports must read the Civil Justice Council’s advice on preparing expert evidence which is available here. The advice is particularly important for those providing medico-legal reports in civil claims. In addition, the report must include the declaration required by Part 35 of the Civil Procedure Rules.

Experience

Medico legal experts often work with a variety of solicitors in a range of different areas. This includes preparing mental health reports for employment tribunals or disputes over guardianship and capacity. Therefore, it is important that these professionals can assess a client’s normal behavior to provide an accurate and unbiased report.