CLE Schedule

Gain perspective on the nature of science-dependent criminal cases and the weak scientific foundations of much of the forensic evidence they rely upon. Understand the ethical duties of counsel to examine, and when appropriate, challenge the quality of the evidence. Discuss ways to challenge the admissibility of evidence under Daubert, FRE 702, and its state corollaries.

Examine common issues and misconceptions with firearm identification evidence so you can identify potential evidentiary challenges in your next case. Receive practical strategies for addressing or challenging the current use and admissibility of firearm evidence in court.

Embark on a fascinating journey through the neuroscience of memory. Identify common misperceptions about memory and understand how memory distortions can lead to wrongful convictions. Learn what the justice system can do to mitigate wrongful eyewitness identifications.

Better understand the role of the medical examiner, coroner, or forensic pathologist in death investigations. Hear from a veteran forensic pathologist with more than 30 years of experience about making the best use of medical examiners as expert witnesses.

Learn tactics for preparing expert witnesses so you can ensure their testimony is both informative and effective. Understand how jurors perceive expert testimony and how to communicate expert testimony the jury will find valuable and credible. Learn how to spot inappropriate lay witness testimony that encroaches on expert territory.​

Non-scientists are often unfamiliar with the assumptions, subtleties, and limitations of expert testimony that includes statistics and probabilities. This creates a risk that the probative value of such evidence will be misjudged by lawyers, judges, and jurors. Identify the problems associated with commonly proffered statistical evidence and discuss strategies for effectively communicating such evidence in the courtroom.​

Understand the acceptable range and limitations of toxicologic instrumental analyses and how reliability can be established under Daubert​. Learn four tests that will help you determine whether a medical toxicology expert is qualified to provide expert testimony and discuss potential challenges to interpreting toxicology results.

Learn persuasive ways to craft a narrative and apply the jury instructions to the facts of your case in closing arguments. Discuss what limitations are placed on closing arguments by existing case law and examine motions to restrict improper closing arguments. Explore ways to tap into dominant emotions to benefit your case.​