The occupational therapist as an expert witness

The legal profession has begun to discover the contribution of the occupational therapist as an expert witness. The role of the therapist is to assist the plaintiff's or defendant's attorney in presenting evidence to the jury regarding injuries sustained by the injured party and implications of these injuries for functional capacity. In preparing themselves educationally and clinically to meet these demands, occupational therapists must define their role more precisely. Through effective reporting, record keeping, and an understanding of the uses and benefits of legal intervention, occupational therapists can have a positive impact in the litigation process.