Toxicologists may testify in civil and criminal trials to explain the science behind injuries caused by chemicals. A doctorate in toxicology or a related field and extensive work experience are required to become an expert witness in toxicology. The court ultimately decides if a witness can testify as an expert.
Toxicology is essentially the study of how chemicals interact or metabolize in the human body. Toxicologists are often required to testify in civil and criminal trials for a variety of reasons. While no precise path is needed, most people follow a very similar path on their way to becoming an expert witness in toxicology. The proper education and degree is an absolute must, followed by extensive experience in the field.
An expert in the field of toxicology may be called upon to testify in a civil case where injuries were caused by the introduction of a chemical into a person’s body. For example, if a plaintiff or person filing the action suffered burns as a result of contact with a chemical or suffered an allergic reaction after ingesting a chemical, it may be necessary for an expert in toxicology to explain the science behind the injuries. In a criminal trial, a toxicology specialist may be needed for similar reasons. Operating during intoxicated trials usually requires a toxicology expert to explain how alcohol metabolizes in the human body in order to prove that the accused was, in fact, intoxicated.
Proper educational background is essential for anyone planning to become an expert witness in toxicology. While someone with a bachelor’s degree may be qualified to work in a laboratory or as an assistant, anyone aspiring to become an expert witness in toxicology should generally plan to continue their education through a doctorate in toxicology. In some cases, a doctorate in a related field, such as medicine or another science, will suffice if extensive work experience in the field of toxicology is also demonstrated.
In addition to the required educational background, considerable work experience in the field of toxicology is also required to become a toxicology expert witness. Supervisory experience in a laboratory is an option to demonstrate the required work experience. Research in the field of toxicology is another way to convince a court that a potential witness is qualified as an expert in the field of toxicology.
In most jurisdictions, the court will make the final decision on whether a witness can testify as an expert. Courts often want to hear evidence that the witness has the educational credentials and experience to be considered an expert. Courts also often want to hear evidence that the witness is generally regarded as an expert in the field by his or her peers.
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