Community-based approach to the reduction of sexual reoffending: circles of support and accountability

Expert Psychiatric Evidence should be read by every mental health practitioner who is required to or chooses to offer an opinion on people involved in legal proceedings. This book highlights how being an expert requires not only knowledge of your clinical specialty, but knowledge of the guidance, rules and law of expert evidence. It will not teach you psychiatry but it will teach you how to be expert at being an expert. Keith Rix’s skill is in effortlessly incorporating his vast experience with an analysis of the law, good humour and helpful practical advice. The result is a successful book and a great read. His candour and use of anecdote helps to clarify the confusing array of information in relation to expert psychiatric evidence. Thewhole book is pervaded by the sense that you are being guided by someone on whom you can really rely. It is never patronising or pretentious. It works as a guide for experienced experts as well as for beginners. It is hard to imagine that it will not also be of use to lawyers and the judiciary. The structure is logical, with introductory chapters followed by consideration of every conceivable legal arena in which the psychiatrist may be asked to give an opinion. Suggestions are made about structuring reports and guidance is given on attending court and giving evidence. On a cautionary note, which is mentioned by Rix in the preface, the law evolves rapidly so the book will date. This should not deter you. Hopefully, your purchase will persuade Rix that a second edition will be received gratefully.