ABSTRACT
Most professionals are unprepared for the rigors of the courtroom and have no formal training in providing effective courtroom testimony. Aggressive cross-examination can often make the courtroom experience stressful and anxiety producing. The vast majority of the cases that archaeologists and biological anthropologists are involved in are criminal cases. Expert witnesses usually start their involvement in a case by examining the evidence and providing a written report to the crime investigating authority. A committal hearing is held in a lower court, such as a magistrate's court. The expert must have skills necessary to apply this knowledge, demonstrate integrity and independence, and ensure that the time and resources necessary to carry out all tasks, including court appearances, will be available. Responsible behaviour at all stages of the case, integrity and truthfulness, in addition to excellent professional knowledge and skills are hallmarks of a good expert witness.
