This is an assessment that has been commissioned by the court. Medico legal assessments is given to the court as an unbiased opinion about evidence in the medical point of view. It usually involves professional evaluation of witnesses and evidence presented before a court of law. It mostly used to settle disputes about the medical status of an employee, residents near a poisonous plant and any other emission of substances that affect the health of the surrounding population. It sheds light on medical injuries, disabilities and diseases.
Importance of legal assessment
This assessment is critical in a civil claim, and it is always required that the claimant provide evidence to prove their case. Evidence from a suitable and qualified medical expert will go a long away if one wishes to get something out of the claim. The expert must confirm and state clearly the injuries sustained and the extent of the symptoms caused. They are also allowed to offer advice on the prognosis of and the length of recovery.
When is it required?
A medico-legal report is required by the court of law to approve dismiss some aspect of a case. It assesses cases such as medical negligence, personal injuries. This report usually is commissioning by the legal representative of the claimant. Many legal representatives typically wait until the situation has reached the stage of medical assessment before contacting the medical expert to assist them.
The experts involved
This is a severe report, and a panel of highly experienced and highly qualified experts is required. They should well conversant with the court requirements and their obligation as expert witnesses in a case. They are required to give an opinion in the best interest of the court without fear or favour regardless of who pays them.
Benefits of medico legal assessments
Compensation
They bring about compensation to the claimant. This may be an exposure to radiations by emissions of radioactive waves by some industries, ear damage due to loud noises by machines at workplaces. It brings a sigh of relief to victims as it serves as substantial evidence in court.
Ensures justice is served.
It involved highly trained professionals who would not risk their careers to forge evidence or give falsified information. They are well aware of the consequences of their assessment and are not allowed to be biased. The blame would fall majorly to the expert should the wrong person be convicted or compensated thus; all health expert needs to keep a good record of all patients as this may serve a piece of very vital information in a court of law.
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