About Us
About
Without the benefit of specialized psychiatric knowledge, it can be extremely difficult to detect when an expert witness strays from established professional standards, draws unsupported conclusions, or misinterprets clinical information. These witnesses often rely on the assumption that their findings will remain unchallenged, confident that attorneys will not demand access to the underlying data. In the absence of a solid grasp of current psychiatric research and accepted practices, questionable or unreliable claims may persist unaddressed, ultimately undermining a case’s credibility. With informed consultation, however, attorneys gain valuable insights that can greatly enhance the effectiveness of their cross-examination.
In working with Dr. Mashigian, attorneys can more thoroughly evaluate the credibility and methodology of mental health experts. Those experts may refer to psychiatric assessments or diagnoses without providing the data that informed their conclusions, potentially skewing their presentation to support a particular agenda. By critically examining these foundational materials, Dr. Mashigian ensures that the original data is accurately represented and ethically applied, empowering attorneys to challenge misleading interpretations and strengthen their overall case strategy.
Psychiatrists engaged in forensic practice must rigorously adhere to established professional standards, including those set forth by the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law (AAPL) Guidelines. Attorneys collaborating with such specialists are advised to become well-acquainted with these guidelines in order to accurately identify instances where expert conduct may fall short of these expectations.
Work Product Analysis Services encompass the following:
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Conducting a thorough review of professional qualifications to determine expertise in pertinent domains, such as the verification of licensure, board certifications, and specialized training
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Evaluating the selection, interpretation, and application of diagnostic tools to ensure they have been utilized correctly and with appropriate methodological rigor
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Scrutinizing reports and related documentation to confirm compliance with recognized professional standards, as well as alignment with the most current and relevant psychiatric literature
Witness Preparation
The credibility and persuasiveness of a single expert witness can significantly influence the outcome of legal proceedings. Any shortcomings in an expert’s testimony, if exposed during trial, can severely undermine a case. Dr. Mashigian provides impartial and comprehensive assessments of expert testimony, identifying strengths and potential vulnerabilities. This meticulous preparatory work enables counsel to preemptively address issues and effectively counter attempts at impeachment, thereby safeguarding the integrity and credibility of expert contributions.