ABSTRACT
The role of any witness in court is to provide observations, facts, and evidence to the court. Courtroom testimony, which is well founded in current, acceptable scientific fact that is without prejudice or bias, is the best defense to being challenged in court. Experience will foster excellence in performance during a forensic investigation, report writing, and courtroom testifying. Additionally, case involvement may include report writing, which may be submitted to the court. The role of an expert witness, such as a forensic veterinarian, is to present evidence and opinions to the court in the context of current acceptable science and medicine. Nonetheless, the expert witness should be aware of three important decisions that govern expert witness testimony. The advantage to the expert witness is that, often, the time spent in court allows the individual to better appreciate the nature and process of the justice system.
