Citation

Cohen LJ. Psychotherapy 1997; 34(4): 397-409.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, American Psychological Association)

DOI

10.1037/h0087740

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Attorneys increasingly challenge the admissibility of expert testimony in domestic violence litigation on the ground that it is "junk science." This article discusses the standards courts apply when determining whether to admit "novel" scientific theory and methodology. It is recommended that psychologists offering testimony that may be subjected to this kind of challenge, critically evaluate the foundation for their opinions in light of the admissibility standards being applied in the pertinent jurisdiction, and that they directly address with the attorneys offering them as witnesses how best to present that foundation to the trial judge in their mutual effort to meet and overcome the junk science challenge. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)