juridischmedische

Juridisch-medische is the field at the intersection of medicine and law, focusing on how medical knowledge is used within legal processes. It encompasses medico-legal investigations, the preparation of expert reports, and the presentation of medical facts in civil, criminal, and administrative contexts. The aim is to provide objective, scientifically grounded medical information that supports legal decision making while safeguarding patient rights, privacy, and professional ethics.

Core activities in juridisch-medische include forensische geneeskunde, such as autopsies, injury assessment, and the determination of cause and manner of death; the review of medical records; and the issuance of medico-legal reports and expert testimony. Other aspects are the assessment of capacity and consent in medical decisions, evaluation of medical liability and damages in civil cases, toxicology and pharmacology in cases of poisoning or medication-related disputes, and the documentation and standardization of medical terminology for legal use. Professionals may be involved in criminal investigations, civil lawsuits, or administrative proceedings, and they collaborate with law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and insurance providers.

Professionals in this field include forensic physicians, medico-legal experts, medical ethicists, and attorneys specializing in health law. They may work in hospitals, university medical centers, forensic institutes, courts, or insurance companies. Education commonly involves specialized training in forensische geneeskunde or juridisch-medische disciplines, with emphasis on report writing, evidence-based assessment, ethics, privacy, and adherence to professional guidelines and legal standards.