NCJ Number
218115
Date Published
2002
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video discusses issues related to the presentation of medical evidence in a rape trial.
Abstract
Two prosecutors introduce the video by noting the importance of medical evidence in establishing whether a crime occurred, and if so, how it occurred. Medical and legal experts are interviewed by each of the two prosecutors regarding significant issues in the presentation of medical evidence at rape trials. The introduction concludes by noting that the video focuses only on female rape victims and that the issues discussed are based in the view that the alleged victim's entire body is a crime scene. The issues discussed include male and female genital anatomy, appropriate medical terminology, types of physical injuries, the female response to stimuli, and the colposcope. Other topics addressed are the sexual assault examination, preparing a medical witness for trial, admitting medical evidence at trial, the cross-examination of a medical witness, and preparing the direct examination of the victim when a medical witness will not testify.