Section 9 police statement: a guide for junior doctors

In England and Wales the police require medical evidence in crimes committed against a person. This will take the form of either a verbal statement given to a police officer under his/her direction, or a written report compiled by the doctor. Police surgeons regularly compile these reports without any complications. However, for many junior doctors they have potential pitfalls. This article is aimed primarily at junior doctors and GPs who are asked infrequently to provide medical evidence in criminal cases.